Jean Bourgogne, grandson of Emile Gallé
Ader-Nordmann, Paris, Succession Jean Bourgogne, unique petit-fils d'Emile Gallé, March 20, 2009, lot 83
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Alastair Duncan and Georges de Bartha, Gallé Furniture, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2012, p. 129 (for the present lot illustrated)

Good overall condition. The woods used to execute the cabinet display with rich figuring and saturated color palette, slightly darker than it appears in the catalogue illustration. The wooden surfaces have been refinished, and present with some light surface scratches, minor abrasions, light surface soiling and minor discolorations commensurate with age and use. The top presents with a delicate burled wood border, which has a couple of minor cracks at the joints of the front edge which have been stabilized and are not visually distracting in such a highly figured area. The rest of the top has possibly been re-veneered at some point in the cabinet's history. The front door of the cabinet presents with an extraordinary marquetry, with a few minute losses and dryness of the woods. One minor area of restoration to the lower edge of the proper left door, measuring approximately 2x1 inches, only visible upon close inspection. The patinated bronze surfaces with some light scratches and minor abrasions consistent with age and gentle use. The two bronze mounts appear with some slight casting differences, the proper left mount being a little crisper than the other. One adjustable shelf to the interior. The hinges outside and to the interior of the cabinet are wonderfully executed, each depicting a snail. The interior with some traces of dirt from use. The cabinet is sold together with four original keys. A masterwork by the artist, showing the deep influence of nature and displaying superb marquetry and with a wonderful family provenance.
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.