A pair of Louis XIV style gilt-bronze mounted ebony, brass and tortoiseshell inlaid meubles d'appui after a model by André-Charles Boulle, late 19th century

in première partie, the rectangular top above an egg-and-dart border and pair of doors inlaid with scrolling foliage, flowers and trelliswork, with elaborate foliate cast and stippled gilt-bronze mounts, opening to reveal a shelf above a shaped apron on tapering toupie feet, the sides with a stylised patera within a berried laurel wreath

In largely original condition. With typical areas of lifting to the contra and premier partie cabinets. With some small area of replaced tortoiseshell veneer. With some minor losses and minor tarnishing to the inlay. With old marks and scratches commensurate with age and use - notably to the top surface. The hinge doors have caused some minor damage to the base on the angle of their turn.
"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."

Related literature:
P. Hughes, The Wallace Collection Catalogue of Furniture, Vol. II, London,
1996, pp. 831-840

This fine pair of meubles d’appui closely relates to the doors of an armoire by André-Charles Boulle (1642-1732) in contre-partie now in the Wallace collection (inv. no. F429), featuring similar scrolling mounts set with satyr marks, whilst the marquetry arabesques and foliage found on its upper part recall the back panel of a pedestal clock case attributed to Boulle and also in the Wallace Collection (inv. no. F42).

Although a combination of at least two of the master's designs, this type of meuble d'appui is singularly pure in its Louis XIV style, as opposed to more flamboyant Napoleon III creations also incorporating Boulle marquetry, and well reflects the renewed interest in the masterpieces of France's golden age under the Roi Soleil which resulted in exact replicas being made, from the mid-19th century, for some of the most distinguished private collectors of the day.

Another pair sold these Rooms, 12 May 2015, lot 49 (£50,000).