A fine Russian neoclassical gilt-brass-mounted mahogany bureau bookcase early 19th century

in two parts; the upper part with stepped cornice above a glazed cupboard door flanked by doors; the cylinder opening to reveal a leather-lined writing slide, pigeon holes and small drawers, the lower part with two banks of three drawers flanking a cupboard door, separated by Corinthian columns.

In excellent restored condition; minor old repairs with small veneer replacements. Repair to top drawer on lower left hand side, bottom drawer sticks. All mounts clean and in 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 bureau bookcase is characteristic of the Russian "Jacob" style which was so fashionable in the late 18th and early 19th century.  This was based largely upon the use of finely figured mahogany veneers outlined with gilt-brass or ormolu borders, however the overall design owes more to the work of David Roentgen than it does to that of the Jacob dynasty.  This bookcase also reflects the influence of Christian Meyer, a German-born cabinet-maker who was greatly influenced by Roentgen's work and executed many commissions for the Imperial Court.

A comparable bureau bookcase of similar overall design, incorporating a cylinder over long drawers in a Swiss private collection is illustrated, A. Chenevière, Russian Furniture The Golden Age 1780-1840, New York, 1988, p. 125, figs. 110-111.