Joseph-Émmanuel Zwiener fl. circa 1875-1900 A FINE AND LARGE LOUIS XV STYLE GILT BRONZE MOUNTED SATINÉ AND BOIS DE BOUT FOLIATE MARQUETRY BOMBÉ COMMODE Paris, circa 1880s

the molded serpentine Sarancolin marble top above two drawers, decorated with a very fine bois de bout foliate marquetry within a heart-shaped encadrement.

Camille Mestdagh, L'Ameublement d'Art Français 1850-1900, Paris, 2010, p. 20, for an example of a variant of the model by Joseph-Emmanuel Zwiener

Overall in good condition. The carcass and veneer with the usual minor nicks, dents and scratches consistent with age and use. However, the cabinet has a great presentation and will not need to be restored. The bronze has been cleaned by the current owner and has not been regilded.
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.

Although apparently unsigned, the present model is undoubtedly made by Joseph-Emmanuel Zwiener, based on its very singular design and quality of manufacture.  A similar commode of the same form and design (apart from the corner chutes) and with the bronze marked ZN was sold in these rooms, October 21, 2008, "Property from the Estate of Rochelle Sepenuk," lot 196. 

Here it is worth highlighting that the similarities in style between Francois Linke and Zwiener is clearly apparant in the overall line of their furniture, combining the traditional Louis XV style with the modernization of the Art Nouveau. Each maker has his own clearly defined style, but similarity extends to the sculptural bronzes. One link between the two was their common sculptor, Léon Méssagé.  It is also interesting to note the gilt-bronze mount centering the apron of the present commode used on a cabinet by Zwiener Jansen, sold Sotheby's New York, October 6, 2006. lot 54.

Footnote courtesy of Christopher Payne.