François Linke (1855-1946) Renowned 19th Century Parisian Ébéniste. Linke created historical interpretations of Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Early in his career his workshop supplied furniture for more established makers such as Jansen and Krieger Linke displayed at the Paris Universal Exhibition of 1900 where he received a gold medal for his exhibition. Linke’s stand was the biggest show in the history of art furniture in the year 1900. Visitors to his stand included; the King of Sweden, king of Belgium, Prince Radziwill, the Prince, d’Arenberg and the President of France Emile Loubet, among many other counts and heiresses from the Americas.

At a time when other more established furniture businesses such as those of Beurdeley and Dasson were closing down, he made a huge investment in his stand and the furniture he supplied for it. By that time Linke’s worldwide reputation and expertise was unmatched by any of his peers. In 1906 Linke recieved the highest distinction of France; the Croix de la Légion d’Honneur. The Art Journal ‘Revue’ described Linke’s style as ‘Entièrement Nouveaux’. His characteristic sculptural gilt mounts reflected the influence of marquetry genius André-Charles Boulle.