A Louis XVI Style Gilt Bronze Mounted Parquetry Cabinet-on-Stand Attributed to François Linke

A Louis XVI Style Gilt Bronze Mounted Parquetry Cabinet-on-Stand Attributed to François Linke

The Louis XVI style is characterized by a yearn to return to antiquity. Greatly influenced by the first ever large scale archaeological excavations ever done, Pompeii in 1748 and the Herculaneum in 1738, ancient design and artistic production came to the forefront of artistic production until the late 19th century. Pastoral and rustic motifs such as wreaths of roses, baskets, palmettes, small farm animals, bows and ribbons inspired by the “taste for Nature”, sheaves of wheat mixed with meadow flowers, and even some gardening tools, were mingled with the ancient mediterranean motifs such as trophies, friezes, stylized acanthus leaves, fluting, and fruit garlands. 

This exquisite late 19th-century cabinet is a testament to the elegance of Louis XVI style, attributed to the renowned François Linke. The piece showcases intricate gilt bronze mountings and a sophisticated parquetry wood design that adorns its faces. Standing on a dainty yet sturdy base, it measures approximately 73 inches in height, 49 inches in width, and 18 inches in depth, making it a statement piece of craftsmanship and historical value.

This cabinet features three distinct bronze mount designs that are characteristic of François Linke's work, including a decorative frieze above the central door displaying a female mask encircled by cornucopias, rams, and ornate foliage; friezes above the side doors with a mix of floral and geometric patterns; and a central lower section adorned with a floral basket hanging from a ribbon. These unmarked mounts closely match Linke's typical style in detail and proportion, as documented in Christopher Payne's reference on Linke's Belle Epoque furniture.

François Linke (1855–1946) was a master French furniture maker known for his extraordinary furniture creations that blended traditional French craftsmanship with new and innovative design. Born in Pankratz, Bohemia (the current Czech Republic) , Linke moved to Paris, where he established his workshop in the late 19th century. He gained fame for his high-quality pieces that were often showcased in international exhibitions, including the Paris 1900 Exposition Universelle, where he received critical acclaim. Linke's work is celebrated for its exquisite marquetry, intricate bronze fittings, and the fusion of Rococo and Art Nouveau styles, making his furniture highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

Artist: Attributed to François Linke

Materials / Technique: Mahogany, Bronze Ornament, Parquetry wood veneer 

Date: Late 19th Century

Dimensions: 73 x 49 x 18 in 

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