A Louis XVI style gilt bronze mounted white carrara marble fireplace after the celebrated model designed by Richard Mique, now at Versailles Paris, circa 1880

Jean-Marie Perouse de Montclos,Versailles, éd. Menges,1991, Paris, p. 278.

Overall in good condition and presentation; the gilt-bronze mounts are well-cast. As visible in the catalogue illustration, there is a loss of gilt bronze molding to the upper square of the left-hand side. There are the usual minor chips and scratches to marble surface, consistent with age.
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.

The present fireplace is a copy of the one designed by Marie Antoinette's preferred architect Richard Mique (1728-1794). The original can be seen today in Louis XVI's dressing room at the Château de Versailles, placed circa 1780. Mique started his long and productive career as chief architect of the Château de Versailles under King Louis XV. Gaining the confidence of the Dauphin, the future King Louis XVI, Mique became intendant et controleur général des bâtiments du Roi in 1774 upon the accession of the Dauphin as King Louis XVI of France. He is best remembered today for Marie Antoinette's pituresque hamlet of the Petit Trianon, the queen's private theatre, the Octogonal Belvedere, the Pavillon du Rocher and the Temple de L'Amour.