Here is my previous discussion :
The work of François Linke is a fundamental step between classical and modern styles, with regard to the Parisian furniture.
In the late nineteenth century, cabinet makers copied the furniture of the previous century. Edouard Lièvre was the first to look for new paths. When he dies in 1886, the Austrian-born Linke is installed in Paris since five years.
Linke continues to be inspired by the eighteenth century, while adding much freedom in the details of the opulent shapes and of the ormolu decorations. His work can be compared to that of his contemporaries in Nancy, Majorelle and Gallé. By the care taken in the beauty of wood, he is also one of the immediate predecessors of Art Déco. The success of Linke's furniture will indeed grow up until World War II.
Christie's sells a grand piano by Erard cased by Linke circa 1910. It is inlaid with kingwood and satiné.The gilt bronze figures in rococo style are derived from the models by Léon Messagé, died in 1901, who had been one of Linke's most frequent collaborators.
Here is the link to the 2012 catalog.