A gilt-bronze-mounted mahogany and acajou moucheté bureau à cylindre Louis XVI, circa 1780

with a three quarter galleried top cast with guilloche above three frieze drawers, the roll-top with a pull-out leather inset writing slide and three drawers applied with beading above three dummy drawers, the lower section with one long drawer flanked on one side by two short drawers, the other side with one deep drawer panelled to simulate two short drawers  enclosing a coffre-fort, each side with a pull-out leather inset slide on fluted tapering legs terminating in toupie feet, the whole with leaf-cast gilt-bronze panelling; veneered on the back to form a centrepiece

Colour of mahogany less orange and gilding less green and more golden and attractive than in the catalogue photograph. The gilt-bronze is slightly dirty and would benefit from a light clean according to taste. The mounts are a good quality and nicely cast and chased. The choice of the plum mahogany on the front and sides and the flame mahogany on the reverse is most attractive, with a good contrast to the mahogany borders. The roll-top shows evidence of previous restored cracks, some of which are opening up as visible from the photograph and there is another hairline crack which would benefit from some restoration and can be easily filled. There are also some hairline splits in the veneer on the right side when facing. There are some splits in the veneer on the reverse but these are not too noticeable with one medium sized scratch which can be repolished. Good large size. A most impressive piece in overall good condition. Can be placed immediately.
"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."