François Linke French, 1855 - 1946 A Régence style gilt bronze-mounted kingwood and satiné bureau plat Paris, early 20th century, index number 1278

fitted with a gilt tooled black leather writing surface, each side with a sliding gilt tooled black leather writing slides, the frieze with three drawers, signed F. Linke to the gilt bronze border, one lock has been removed to reveal the CT Linke stamp and the number 1278

Christopher Payne, François Linke 1855 – 1946 The Belle Époque of French Furniture, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2003

Overall in good condition and presentation with the usual minor hairline scratches and minute nicks to veneers and carcass consistent with age and use. Tarnishing to gilt-bronze in places also consistent with age and atmospheric conditions through the years. The inset leather surface on the top is later.
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.

This wonderful bureau plat is fitted with very elegant male and female bust corner-chutes, identical to the design of the ones on the celebrated center table, index number 965, that was exhibited with a wider array of furnishings at the Salon des Industries du Mobilier in 1902 and again in Liège in 1905. An example of index 965 was sold recently at Christie's New York, November 18, 2014, lot 249.