A carved bois de Bagard bellows, Eastern France, circa 1725

of tapering spade form centred by a pierced acanthus rosette, the border carved with hearts, the front with scrolling foliage and flowerheads, the reverse with a pierced heart motif, the sides in leather with a turned tapering brass nozzle

Sotheby's Paris, Mobilier, Sculptures et Objets d'Art, 16th April 2013, lot 46.

This fine bellows has a crack to its main side, and its handle has been repaired, as visible from the catalogue photograph. There are marks and scratches consistent with age and use, and the leather is of probably later date. There is a tear to the leather.
"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."

Bois de Bagard is a type of cherrywood also referred to as Bois de Sainte-Lucie which is found in the Lorraine region of Eastern France. The name is in reference to the sculptor César Bagard (1620-1709), one of the leading 17^thcentury woodcarvers in Nancy, whose workshop specialised in producing small objects such as boxes, frames and candlesticks in carved wood.