the shaped red brèche marble top above three long drawers, the corner mounts with a dolphin flanked by two blowing figures of Triton, the sabots with lion masks, both sides with a rich central rococo foliated mount, one drawer stamped JME

An impressive commode in overall good conserved condition. Later marble top with minor chips and scratches and a notable repair to one corner. Surface has been re-polished and there are some later repairs to veneers. Constructional joint to sides which is visible where the top drawer meet the second. The original and boldly cast mounts have been re-gilt. Small loss to veneer above apron. Drawer linings with age splits. Back feet re-veneered. Generally with minor old marks and scratches consistent with age and use.
"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."

This commode en tombeau is a remarkable example of its kind, heir to the prolific Régence model, of exotic wood veneers, but taken to impressive heights of richness through the use of bold gilt bronze mounts. The corner mounts present a dolphin framed by a rippled-water cartouche flanked by cornucopiae blowing tritons, with their tails entwined. If the sabot mounts with lion mask can be seen in several examples of Régence and early Louis XV commodes, the side mount, together with the corner mounts with the prominent dauphin reference, seems to be particularly rare. One other commode, with similar mounts was sold with Christie’s Paris, Contenu d'une Propriété d'Ile de France, 4 July 2006, lot 583 (€60,000), also unstamped.

Several commodes stamped by Louis Delaïtre (maître in 1738) use the same sabot mounts and escutcheons, suggesting him as a strong possibility as ébéniste of this commode. Delaïtre had a reputation of both being an excellent maker, having worked for marchands like his colleague Pierre Migeon, and of being a violent and vindictive man, according to coeval documentation. He had his atelier at Rue Saint-Nicolas and was active until the 1750’s producing bold pieces, some still in full Régence style whilst other hint the movement and lightness that characterize the Louis XV period.