A Regency mahogany breakfront secretaire library bookcase circa 1815

in the manner of Gillows of Lancaster, with a moulded cornice above four glazed doors enclosing adjustable shelves, the secretaire drawer with pigeonholes and ten small drawers, one fitted for writing implements, flanked by drawers, above a central pair of cupboard doors enclosing an adjustable shelf flanked by cupboards, each fitted with three drawers, on a plinth, minor alterations to the cornice

This piece is generally in good restored condition. The lock on the secretaire drawer has been replaced and there is a patch around the replacement. All of the cupboard doors have marks where handles have been previously sited. Handles replaced. Both cornices have been cut on the return and the pine framing has been partially replaced. One pane cracked. The plinth is marked and could benefit from repolishing. For further information on this Lot, please contact the English Furniture Department on 00 44 (0) 207 293-5470.
"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."

This elegant library bookcase is of a style and quality which accords with it being made by Gillows of Lancaster. The use of well figured veneers and the panelled lower doors framed with reeded and tablet cornered ribbons link it with a number of other bookcases known to be by this maker including furniture supplied to Coed Coch in Wales, circa 1807 and to Tatton Park in Cheshire between 1810 and 1812 ( the latter illustrated in plates 10 to 13 of the journal Furniture History, 1970).