An Italian ivory inlaid walnut, ebonised and marquetry commode, Piedmontese, first quarter 18th century

with a rectangular bowed top with canted corners inlaid with a stylised star motif enclosing a townscape within strapwork with floral sprays above four long drawers with canted stiles, the sides inlaid with a cartouche with ribbon-tied floral spray on flattened bun feet, the top bearing the signature Piffetti fecit Taurino and date 1722

In overall good conserved condition. Old very minor marks, chips and scratches and losses to veneer commensurate with age and normal usage. There is a horizontal construction crack along the stop running through the stylised star motif which can be filled or left. There are scattered age cracks generally which are normal and can be left. Evidence of previous handles. The feet are probably later. Evidence of old very minor worm which appears to be no longer active. Attractive patina.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Comparative Literature:
Roberto Antonetto, Il Mobile Piemontese nel Settecento, Vol. II, Turin, 2010,pp. 32-33, no. 5, illustrates a related commode inlaid with a cartouche on the top in ivory, on a palissander ground which is of similar form with four shaped drawers, strapwork cartouches and canted stiles, circa 1730-40, stated to be possibly the workshop of Prinotto. See the same author op. cit., pp. 38-39, no. 12, for another related commode with strapwork cartouches four long drawers and with a cartouche on the top inlaid in ivory and a commode illustrated by the same author, op. cit., p. 40, fig. 13.b, with a similar ribbon-tied floral spray on the side as on the offered commode.

A commode of similar conception inlaid in bone on the top with a horseman in a landscape described as probably Piedmontese, sold in these Rooms, 3rd December 1997, lot 100 (£19,000).