François Linke 1855-1946 a unique commode paris, circa 1909, index number 1171

with a molded brèche violette d'Espagne marble top, three frieze drawers above two long drawers sans traverse, purpleheart, sycamore, satinwood and kingwood flowerhead trellis-parquetry, signed F. Linke to the front right-hand side, one sabot has been removed to reveal the FL mark from the bronze master model.

C. Payne, François Linke, p. 220, pls. 240 and 241, for illustrations of a variation of index number 1171.

A. Pradère, French Furniture Makers, p. 261, 284, figs. 276, 277, 278, 304 and 305, for illustrations of similar 18th century models by Oeben and Roger Vandercruse.

Overall in good condition with the usual minor scratches, dents and nicks consistent with age and use. Slight tarnishing to gilt-bronze, dirt and oxidation in some places. Marble with minor chips to edges.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Linke title: Commode transition genre ancien, bois de violette et bois de rose, les côtés et le devant médaillon marqueterie, 3 tiroirs

The present lot, in the popular Transitional style delineating the early forms of classicism in the later part of the reign of Louis XV, appears to be the original Linke model of the commode number 1771. There is no record for whom it may have been made, thus presumably it was for stock. The Linke hand written price list gives the retail figure of this model as 2,900 francs. A further two were made with coromandel panels, one for a client and one for stock in 1922.  Another large version was made in 1927 for a Mr. Lerner and one further small version for stock. An undated note states that there were 60 items of 'fonte spéciale' cast for this model and 6 in 'fonte ordinaire,' chased by Dailly who worked on the last versions made in 1926-1927, with a total cost price at just under 6,500 francs each. 

Footnote courtesy of Christopher Payne