Louis XVI Style Sideboard Commode After Jean-Henri Riesener

This incredible antique side cabinet, circa 1890, is an excellent copy of the design by Jean-Henri Riesener (1834-1806) which was installed in the private apartment of King Louis XVI at Versailles in 1775. (The original now resides in Musee Conde, Chateau de Chantilly.) It features mahogany and kingwood bandings, fruitwood marquetry, a massive d-shaped white marble top, and extensive bronze mounts. The center marquetry panel features a still life scene, flanked by cherubs representative of Bienfaisance (Termperence) and Justice. It has two drawers decorated with a mask of Apollo and at the base a globe with fleur-de-lys and cornucopia. Its rounded sides are fitted with cupboard doors flanked by bronze figures representing Mars, Hercules, Prudence and Temperence. A handful of nineteenth century copies of this commode, comparable in quality and condition, have appeared at major auction in the past ten years. Notable recent auction sales in the U.S. include: lot 472, Sotheby's New York, 10/24/07, $58,000; lot 313, Sotheby's New York, 4/20/07, $54,000; lot 252, 4/26/06, Sotheby's New York, $108,000. Overall condition is good. There are some obvious losses to the veneer along the front, but all original mounts are present and there appear to be no prior restorations. Our client retains the services of a former Christie's conservationist and full restoration may be completed prior to shipment. This item resides with our client in New York City and may be seen in person by appointment. Additional images forwarded upon request.