An Italian Ebony, Mahogany, and Boulle Marquetry Breakfront Bookcase circa 1870, Florence, Ordered from the Opificio delle Pietre Dure

decorated with pewter, brass and copper on an ebony ground.

Marchese Cubattoli, Castello Cubattoli, Tuscany, and thence by descent

In excellent overall condition. Slight hairline age cracks to ebony veneers, some old marks, superficial abrasions consistent with age and use. Small restorations and repairs.
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.

The Opificio delle Pietre Dure was founded in Florence by the Medici family in the 16th century, and remained active until the 19th century. Although the workshop specialized in works on marble and semi-precious hard stones, it also produced marquetry pieces such as the present lot.
This cabinet, along with the monumental Boulle marquetry table, lot 736, was commissioned in 1870 from the Opificio by the Marquesses Cubattoli for the Castello Cubattoli, standing halfway between Florence and Arezzo. 
The renewed interest for the Baroque and Renaissance styles had already begun by the beginning of the 19th century. This new style was particularly developed in Florence and Milan, where the countless cinquecento architectural motifs in these cities provided new inspiration for cabinet-makers. The decorations for this cabinet, in particular, derive from the Loggias of Raphael, which were widely distributed in the 19th century.