LONDON.- The sale of Important European Furniture, Sculpture & Clocks realised £7,012,750 and was 79% sold by value and 65% sold by lot.

The top lot was a pair of Louis XIV ormolu-mounted Boulle marquetry coffres en tombeau (coffers-on-stands), by André-Charles Boulle, circa 1688, which was bought by the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam and realised £2,617,250.

“We are delighted that the museum quality pair of Louis XIV coffers by André-Charles Boulle (1642-1732) have found a most appropriate new home, having been bought by the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, for £2,617,250, where they will be on public view to be enjoyed and appreciated by many. During Christie's pre-sale exhibition these previously unpublished masterpieces by Boulle were greatly admired by international institutions, academics and private collectors. We are very pleased to have been able to showcase them on a global platform” said Charles Cator, Deputy Chairman, Christie’s International.

“Amongst the furniture highlights elsewhere the large pair of Blaeu globes and the Louis XIV chandelier both sparked fierce international competition. The sculpture and works of art featured also saw strong private and trade bidding throughout; we are particularly pleased with the results for the bronze Cupid by Van Cleve and the pair of royal silver gilt-framed miniatures.”

“This sale marks the stellar end to a season which has powerfully demonstrated the timeless vigour of appreciation and demand for the Decorative

Arts, as exemplified by the price realised for the Wrotham Coffers” said Marcus Rädecke, Director of European Furniture and Donald Johnston,