Large Buffet Signed François Linke Louis XVI Style Late 19th Century

An outstanding and rare Louis XVI-style sideboard, masterfully crafted in France in the late 19th century by the celebrated ébéniste François Linke (1855–1946). Signed "F. Linke" on a gilt-bronze mount, this exquisite piece exemplifies the cabinetmaker’s artistry and attention to refined detail.

This monumental and palatial buffet is veneered in fine mahogany and adorned with superb gilt-bronze ormolu mounts of the highest quality. The richly molded and fluted uprights, gilt rosettes, and refined drawer pulls showcase the impeccable bronze work typical of Linke’s Parisian atelier.

The thick, original marble top is made of Brèche Violette marble, a rare and luxurious variety prized for its vivid veining in hues of white, violet, and grey—perfectly complementing the warmth of the wood and the gold of the bronze.

The lower section features Chinoiserie panels, finely painted in polychrome lacquer on a black ground. These scenes evoke idyllic East Asian landscapes: figures strolling among rocks and trees, engaging in conversation, or crossing tranquil waters in a sampan. On the right, a pavilion rises above a hillside where two seated figures rest in meditation or music-making. Each panel is framed with gilt bronze, emphasizing the harmony and elegance of the composition.

Its grand proportions and curved sides with open shelves give this piece a commanding presence, making it ideally suited for a château interior or a refined collector's salon.

Preserved in superb original condition, this sideboard is not only a testament to the opulence of Belle Époque craftsmanship but also a collector’s masterpiece signed by one of the greatest French ébénistes of his era.

Dimensions:
Height: 99 cm
Width: 213 cm
Depth: 62 cm