Maison Alphonse Giroux & Cie

executed in Paris by Pierre-Ferdinand Duvinage
stained, ebonised and parcel gilt fruitwood, lacquer, gilt bronze

Denise Ledoux-Lebard, Le Mobilier Français du XIX Siècle, Paris, 1989, pp. 186, 229-230
Ex. Cat. Un age d'or des arts décoratifs 1814-1848, Galeries nationales du Grand Palais, Paris, 10 October - 30 December 1991, pp. 192-194, 422, 460-461
Camille Mestdagh, L'Ameublement d'art Français 1850-1900, Paris, 2000, pp. 72, 92
Christopher Payne, European Furniture of the 19th Century, Woodbridge, 2012, pp. 39
Marc Maison, Masterpieces of Marquetry in the 19^th century, Patents, Paris, 2012, pp. 73-85 for information on the makers

In overall good condition with typical signs of wear, scuffs and scratches consistent with age and use. The red lacquer decoration to the returns of both sides have some minor horizontal age cracks which are secure. The top right moulded gallery has a minor restored break. The elephant mask legs have scuffs and some discolouration and losses as to be expected. There are also signs of worm that is no longer active. The ebonised interior with one small crack above the cupboard doors to the moulding.
"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."

In 1867 Maison Alphonse Giroux was taken over by Alphonse Giroux’s cousin Pierre-Ferdinand Duvinage & Harinkouck.  The latter did not stay long and he is not recorded with the firm post 1874. Following Duvinage’s acquisition of the firm it gained a new lease of life exhibiting the same year at the Exhibition Universelle, Paris where he won a silver medal. Ferdinand Duvinage died between 1874-1877 leaving the company to his wife Rosalie-Eléonore-Antoinette. The firm continued to excel in the French-Japonism style, indeed the company is most recognisable today by the unique ivory and metal marquetry patented in 1877 by Rosalie. For further information on the Giroux firm please see lot 127