- 239
An Ivory-inlaid and Sadeli Portable Writing Desk, India, Circa 1850
Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
the sandlewood body of faceted rectangular form with two hinged lids secured by locks, the sloping front lid opening out into a velvet lined writing slope and a gabled cover revealing various lidded compartments, brass handles to sides, the surface inlaid with plaques of ivory inset with sadeli micro-mosaic roundels and triangles bordered by geometric bands
Condition
Areas of minor staining, splitting and lifting to ivory appliques, some areas of loss and rubbing to micro mosaic, as viewed
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
A very similar writing desk, which belonged to Captain Nath H. Millet a member of the Salem and East India Marine Society, is in the Peabody Essex Museum, illustrated in Jaffer 2001, p.317, no. 129.