A Louis XV style bureau plat after the celebrated model by Jacques Dubois Paris, circa 1885

gilt-tooled brown leather writing surface above three frieze drawers, the back similarly decorated with three frieze drawers, veneered in kingwood, the frieze all around with end-cut floral marquetry on satiné veneers within floral cast and scrolled gilt bronze encadrements, the lock plate has been removed to reveal the stamp B. Théau / Sérrurier / Paris.

Extensive damage and wear to original brown leather writing surface. The gilt-bronze borders are all tarnished and corroded with no gilding left. Overall in good condition with the usual minor scratches, dents and nicks to veneers and carcass consistent with age and use. Extensive tarnishing to gilt-bronze mounts and with dirt in places.
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 present lot is based on a bureau plat now in the permanent collection of the Musée du Louvres. Purchased in 1768 by the Duc d' Orléans for the Chateau de Rainsy, it was confiscated at the revolution from the latter. Jacques Dubois received Master in 1742 and was one of the most distinguished Parisian ébénistes of the Louis XV period. He worked for many years as an ouvrier privilégié in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine. He used the stamp I DUBOIS as did his son René (who received Master in 1755).

A closely related 18th century bureau plat by Dubois, sold, Sotheby's, Paris, March 16, 2005, lot 128, for €684,000.  A similar 19th century example sold in these rooms, April 20, 2007, lot 190, for $48,000.  Another example sold Sotheby's New York, April 14 and 15, 2008, lot 428 for $75,000.