An English carved mahogany centre pedestal desk circa 1860

in George II style, after a design by Thomas Chippendale, with two  drawers above a cupboard door enclosing folio divisions to one side and three drawers to the other, opposed by the same arrangement, the folio divisions sliding to reveal secret  drawers and compartments,  with carrying handles to the sides

Illustrated in Ralph Edwards and Margaret Jourdain, Georgian Cabinet--Makers, 1944, p.126, pl.126, then described as a library table probably by Thomas Chippendale, and given a provenance of M. Harris and Sons.

Generally this piece is in very good condition. Some ink staining to the interior of the drawers.
"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."

The design of this desk is closely based on that for a `Library Table', shown with variations, on plate LXXXIV of the 1762 edition of Thomas Chippendale`s, The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker`s Director, (see illustration). Describing it, Chippendale writes ` [it] hath three Drawers at Top on each Side, with a carved Festoon of Flowers on the four end Drawers. The middle Drawer goes from Front to Front, for holding Maps, Prints etc. The Doors may have carved Palm-Branches on them.'