A kingwood and crossbanded bureau plat by Théodore Millet, Paris, circa 1880

applied with gilt-bronze mounts, the serpentine leather inset top containing three frieze drawers with opposing simulated drawers, on cabriole legs, stamped Millet Paris, Meubles & Bronzes d'Art

Catalogue image reversed, good overall condition, some wear and stains to the top with a few minor chips throughout and some rubbing to the mounts. Fine quality. To discuss this lot in greater detail please call Edward Rising or David Macdonald on 0207 293 5107 or 0207 293 5507.
"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."

Maison Millet was established by Théodore Millet in 1853, and operated until 1902 from premises at 11, Rue Jacques-Coeur, Paris before relocating to 23, Boulevard Beaumarchais from 1902 to 1904.  Maison Millet was a highly regarded furniture firm that was described as producing 'meuble et bronze d'art, genre ancient et moderne'.  The company won several awards in the series of exhibitions in London and Paris, such as the gold medal in the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle, a Grand Prix in 1900 and three further diplomes d'honneur and four médailles d'or for the furniture they produced.  The firm specialized in replicating the Louis XV and XVI styles, though they were acclaimed by their contemporaries for working in their own modern style.  In March 1902, the firm was authorised by the Palais de Versailles to replicate Marie-Antoinette's celebrated Grand cabinet à bijoux.  An auction was held in 1906 clearing the remaining stock and the firm finally ceased trading in 1918.  Maison Millet was an active client of François Linke.