François Linke French, 1855 - 1946 A gilt bronze mounted satiné and satiné cube parquetry bahut circa 1902-1930, index number 1108

surmounted by a fleur de pêcher marble top, signed F. Linke to the keyhole escutcheon, the lock with the Ct. Linke stamp and numbered 1108

Christopher Payne, François Linke 1855 – 1946 The Belle Époque of French Furniture, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2003,  p. 277 (illustrated) and pp. 280-281 in a watercolor interior project.

Very good-fine overall condition and presentation. Some minor fine old scuffs, marks and scratches consistent with age and use, some minor discoloration and oxidation to mounts consistent with atmospheric conditions over the years. Marble repaired and will evidence of infill.
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 unusual cupboard is based on Archive number 1063, a vitrine with glass sides. The first entry appears in a metalwork book as Commande 390, which dates to circa 1902. Hoffelin took 258 hours to make the first carcass, which was to have a fleur de pêcher marble top. The Daybook also notes that Christofle cast some of the bronze mounts. However it was a popular model made in 1910, with another version in mahogany made for Madame Devoto in 1920. The last two were made for the King of Egypt in 1925 and 1927. The cost price in 1910 was 1,030 francs 30 centimes, rising to 6,697 francs for the 1930 version for the King of Egypt. The initial retail price was 1,800 francs, rising to 8,500 in 1921.

Footnote courtesy of Christopher Payne.