An English walnut, amboyna, marquetry and gilt-brass mounted vitrine cabinet second quarter 19th century, in the manner of Robert Blake

the inverted serpentine top inlaid with finely engraved marquetry incorporating parrots with red and green tinted plumage amongst rocaille scrolls, the front with four glazed panels doors enclosing with mirror-backed interior with a single fixed shelf and blue cut-velvet lining

In exceptionally well preserved condition. Minor shrinkage to the moulded edge of top. The bottom sections to each side with later cut-outs to accommodate profile of a skirting board. Minor losses to carved elements to plinth. The rear edge of the top with some vacant screw-holes suggesting the cabinet may have originally been surmounted by an upper section such as a mirror. Minor blemishes to the silvering of mirror panelling to the interior. An Exhibition quality piece with the rare distinction of retaining the original tinting to the marquetry parrots to the top. Minor old marks and scratches. Very good colour and patina.
"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 exhibition quality of inlay and carving exhibited on the present lot have affinities with the furniture of the leading 19th century London furntiure maker Robert Blake, who was a `cabinet-inlayer and buhl manufacturer', recorded at 8 Stephen Street, off Tottenham Court Road, London by 1826, remaining at this address until 1881. The firm is also believed to have executed marquetry designs for the London marchand mercier Edward Holmes Baldock.  After 1842, the firm was known as George Blake and Bros., cabinet inlayers and their patrons included the Dukes Northumberland at Alnwick castle for whom they supplied a magnificent marquetry library table designed by C.P. Slocombe which took eleven years (1854-1865) to complete. In common with the present lot, the Alnwick table features both intricate marquetry and elaborate carving of a comparable quality to the offered cabinet (See Christopher Gilbert, Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture, 1996, p. 18 and p. 112, pls. 131-132).