A carved giltwood and painted commode, Rome, circa 1770

of sarcophagus shape, with faux-marble top, above three drawers 

W. Apolloni Gallery, Rome

The illustration of the catalogue is accurate. There are the inevitable dents, marks and scratches due to age and use. There are some chips to the painting and to the gilding revealing the gesso, the red bowl and the wood underneath. The painting and the gilding have been slightly refreshed to some places. There are some minor cracks and lifting areas to the wooden top. There are some minute water stains inside the drawers. The inside of the case, near the drawers, is slightly reinforced with wooden pieces. Impressive and extremely elegant commode in the Antique taste.
"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."

This extremely unusual and elegant commode exemplifies the enduring influence of the Antique taste in the European, and in this case, Roman decorative arts. Inspired by the sarcophagi of ancient Rome, this shape was already employed during the late Renaissance, especially on ornate cassoni. The shape was later adopted by French ornemanistes such as Jean Bérain the Elder (1640-1711) (fig. 1) and interpreted by ébénistes such as André-Charles Boulle (1642-1732).

The present commode is unique in combining this design, complete with lion's masks, an emblem of strength and accompanied by lion paw feet with distinctively Neoclassical motifs, such as the guilloche border on the lower drawer and the military trophy embellishing the front.