A Russian Neoclassical brass-mounted mahogany cylinder desk early 19th century

the cylinder opening to reveal three rows of three drawers.

Minor marks and dents to the brass mounts consistent with age. Lockplates and handles to the drawers of the lower section are later replacements. Minor restorations to the veneer in areas, particularly around the corners. In otherwise very good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This desk can be compared with other cylinder desks which were popularized in Russia at the end of the 18th century.  This fashion was inspired not only by the prevailing French taste, but also by the work of David Roentgen which was very much in evidence in the great Imperial palaces.  A comparable desk with a cylinder decorated with horizontal brass banding, possibly made by Heinrich Gambs, now in a private collection, is illustrated, Venäläisiä Huonekaluja, Russian Furniture, 1998, Lahti, p. 123, n. 25.  For another comparable example see, A. Chenevière, Russian Furniture, New York, 1988, p. 126, pl. 112.