François Linke (1895–1910) Side Table Signed

Elegant Louis XV style two-tiered side table in precious wood veneer with rich ornamentation of finely chiseled and gilded bronzes. The oval-shaped upper tray is surrounded by a bronze molding (ingot molding) and decorated with geometric marquetry known as "trompe-l'œil cube marquetry"; the same decoration appears on the spacer shelf. The apron is centered by a shell cartouche flanked by foliage, an emblematic motif of the mounts used by Linke and resulting from his collaboration with the sculptor Léon Messagé. The four arched legs, adorned with foliage scraps and rocaille sabots, emphasize the fluid line of the whole. Piece signed "F. Linke" on a mount. Original gilding, cleaned; woodwork after restoration, neat presentation condition.

François Linke (1855–1946), established at 170, Faubourg Saint-Antoine in Paris, was one of the major cabinetmakers of the Belle Époque, a prize-winner at the 1900 World's Fair. His coffee tables and side tables, often signed on a mount and sometimes marked "FL" on the back of the bronzes, are distinguished by a particularly high quality of chasing and gilding. Several similar tables (marquetry, apron enhanced with a shell) are published and referenced in the catalogs of galleries and auction houses.

Condition
Very good condition: original gilding revived; varnish and veneers after restoration. Minimal signs of use consistent with age.

Dimensions:
Height -75 cm;
Width - 64 cm;
Depth - 49 cm