The photographs are accurate. Beautiful piece of furniture, rare among the works by BVRB. The marquetry and the veneer are in good condition. The veneer is not lifting, it is not dry. There are the few usual patched restorations to the veneer, mostly on the edges of the drawers and on the rear edges of the commode. It has been noticed that the carcass is made of oak and unexpectedly also of pine. The commode has been restored several years ago. During this restoration the surface of the carcass (top, back and bottom) have been completely black painted. It is possible that a few pieces of wood from the structure have been restored or replaced at this stage, but it is impossible to verify with the black juice. Some black juice areas voluntary removed on the back to check a possible presence of inventory number (no traces of inventory number). Anyway, the commode is in pretty condition and ready to display. The bronze mounts are high quality with an exquisite chasing. The four handles are later additions. They have mercury gilding; they have been slightly cleaned up. There is a small ornament which needs to be properly refixed on the right side of the commode (on the lower cartouche). The rear edges of the commode possibly previously with gilt-bronze "chutes". The brass bands under the "chutes" on the front legs are later additions. The marble top is with some scattered patched restorations throughout the surface; the restoration of the rear left corner of the top (broken and restucked) would need to be reviewed. The commode is stamped on the rear left corner (difficult to see) and partially visible on the front left corner. The piece is in good expected and restored condition.
"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."