Francois Linke Side Table

Exquisite craftsmanship by François Linke is coupled with the elegance of Wedgwood in this remarkable side table. Highly similar to one of the most enquired-after designs at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis, this outstanding piece features the eminent French cabinet-maker’s trademark bronze gilding, which complements the luminous Ceylon satinwood. A beautiful white marble top harmonizes wonderfully with Wedgwood jasperware plaques adorning the frieze.

The stamp of "F. LINKE" is visible underneath the table top.

Circa 1904

17” wide x 12” deep x 28 3/4” high

Arguably the leading cabinet-maker of the Belle Epoque, Linke's highly original designs fused Rococo gilt flourishes with the liveliness and the fluidity of Art Nouveau. Linke's creations were labeled "entierement nouveau," or "entirely new," and his work was considered some of the most impressive at the turn of the century. His characteristic sculptural gilt mounts reflected the influence of marquetry genius André-Charles Boulle, but Linke's most original designs were almost certainly created in collaboration with the enigmatic sculptor Léon Messagé, who excelled in creating lively, high relief, allegorical figures recalling the styles of Boucher and Falconet.

Linke's greatest successes were achieved during the years after 1900 and up to the beginning of World War I. He opened a showroom in the fashionable Place Vendôme and business flourished until World War II, although the popularity of the ancien régime styles already started to decline. Linke died at the venerable age of 91.

Reference:
François Linke: Belle Epoque, 2003, Christopher Payne