A North European brass-mounted secrétaire à abattant late 18th/early 19th century

with a three-quarter galleried mottled grey, purple and white marble top above a frieze drawer and fall-front enclosing a fitted interior with columns and three drawers with receptacles for writing implements, with a mirrored backboard above one long and two short drawers on fluted columnar legs joined by a shaped shelf on toupie feet, the whole with brass banding; restorations

Colour less orange slightly darker and more attractive than in the catalogue photograph. Some miniscule areas of infill in the marble top. There is some retouching to the gilding and a minor loss to the left handle on the top drawer. Some fine cracqueleur on the front flamed mahogany panel, commensurate with age. The escutcheons are possibly later replacements. The brass banding on the shelf has some dents. The locks are rather stiff and may need easing generally. The gilt-bronze collar on the front right and rear left foot are loose and need repinning. The feet are possibly later replacements. The gilt-bronze gallery internally is possibly a later replacement. In overall very good conserved condition.
"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."