A fine South German pewter and brass inlaid walnut marquetry commode, Bavaria Baroque, circa 1725-1730

the shaped top above three slightly curved drawers, inlaid with interlaced strapwork and flowers, on acanthus leaf giltwood paw feet

Niederaltaich Monastery, Passau, Germany. 

H. Kreisel, G. Himmelheber, Die Kunst des Deutschen Möbels. Spätbarock und Rokoko, vol. 2, München 1983, p. 135 and fig. 350.

In overall good condition with the usual minor dents, marks and scratches due to use and age, the pewter and brass inlay with loose parts and small losses, minor hairline cracks and restorations to the veneer, minor restorations to the giltwood acanthus leaf ornaments, wear to the gilding.
"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."

The Boulle technique used in German furniture first appeared at the end of the 17th century. It was especially stimulated by Elector Maximilian II Emanuel (1662-1726) since he spent some years in The Netherlands and France. It is known that he commissioned André Charles Boulle to manufacture furniture especially for him. These he brought with him when returning home. Maximilian also employed the sculptor and boulle technique specialist Gullielmus de Grof, previously working for Louis XIV, in 1714. This both inspired and stimulated the German furniture makers using the technique with tortoiseshell, brass and or pewter. The present example is executed in a similar technique using only pewter and brass inlays.