A tulipwood, amaranth and marquetry table à écrire stamped I. P. Latz Louis XV, mid 18th century

with a pull-out inset leather-lined lectern, with a drawer in the side fitted with a pull-out compartment containing silver receptacles for inkpot and sander by Pierre Leplain, Paris circa 1800; restorations

Sold Drouot Paris, 1st March 1984

P. Kjellberg, Le Mobilier Français du XVIII siècle, Tours , 1998,  p. 488, illustrated.

Escutcheon regilt. Gilt-bronze mounts later. Some very minor restorations to the veneer. There is a hole drilled to the underside of the carcass and also the pull-out slide which cannot be explained. Ink staining inside the drawer. In overall good 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."

Jean-Pierre Latz active 1691-1754

The outline of this piece with its shaped gently canted frieze, pull-out writing slide below the top and drawer in the side, are characteristic of writing tables produced by Latz.

He was one of the outstanding ébénistes of the mid 18th century working in a flamboyant rococo style incorporating floral marquetry the design and executiion of which displayed his virtuosity. He was also well known for the high quality of his mounts, which in contravention of the Guild rules he produced in his own workshop.