François Linke 1855 - 1946 A Louis XVI style gilt-bronze and jasperware-mounted inlaid satinwood, kingwood and mahogany work table Paris, circa 1910, index number 575

the hinged oval top with spring release latch opening to reveal a silk-lined well, the lockplate has been removed to reveal the C. LINKE / SERRURERIE / PARIS stamp and index number 575.

C. Payne, François Linke, p. 176, pl. 192-193 and pl. 444-445

Overall very good original condition; the top with some minor surface scratches and dirt; one gilt-bronze banding to right Wedgwood plaque of central frieze lacking one screw and is slightly loose; one Wedgwood plaque to the left side with a vertical hairline crack; some dirt and wear to the plaques; platform stretcher slightly loose from legs and could be glued - not there are NO breaks at joins with legs; Overall with the usual old scratches and dents consistent with age and use.
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: Petite table Louis XVI citronnier garnie et Wegdwood [sic].

Designed circa 1899, this table in solid lemonwood was a very popular Linke model with an obvious appeal to followers of English furniture of the late 18th century George III period. Linke lists nine variations of this table in his price list, misspelling Wedgwood in each case. The Linke Archive has a box of approximately 75 unused Wedgwood plaques suitable for this model. The table's variations were a large or small model, in one case without Wedgwood, or with a marble top, and with or without a work bag. The cabinetmaking cost between 65 and 75 francs, depending on the model, and the Wedgwood 50 francs. Despite the seeming rarity of the 'citronnier de Ceylan,' the wood only cost 15 francs, with Linke commenting that it was too expensive to spend 14 francs mounting the bronzes and plaques. One example was ordered by the celebrated London and Lancaster firm of Gillow in 1911. Nine examples in all appear to have been made between 1899 and 1926.

A similar table sold in these rooms, October 26, 2006, lot 20 ($14,400)

Footnote courtesy Christopher Payne