A William III walnut marquetry oyster-veneered chest of drawers circa 1700

two short drawers above three graduated long drawers.  Bun feet replaced, restorations.

Overall restored condition; the top with some perishing to the finish; inpainting and restoration to the back edge of the top; small loss to cross-cut molding of front left side of molded edge; two small drawers each with two small patches where previous hardware was attached; drawer-pulls replaced; drawer linings to top drawers possibly replaced; each long drawer with battens to the lower edges and with replaced drawer runners; loss to cross-cut molding of second drawer divider at join with the left side panel; some molding replaced; top of drawer fronts to bottom two drawers appear to be sanded and each lacking veneer and with old worm; loss to veneer of front left corner of apron; bun feet replaced; overall with some old marks, scratches scuffs and bruises.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The marquetry to this chest of drawers is typical of the late 1680s and is similar to that of a chest of drawers, illustrated, A. Bowett, English Furniture 1660-1714, 2002, p. 197, pl. 7:3, and a cabinet, p. 198, pls. 7:4, 7:5, 7:6.  Bowett, op cit., describes this marquetry as being 'new, less figurative [than that of the Charles II period] . . . the designs essentially two-dimensional, with an emphasis on symmetry rather than variety.  Foliage and flowers were heavily stylised, with shading and perspective kept to a minimum or entirely absent'.  Of particular interest are the marquetry stylized animal heads to the centers of the long drawers.  A related chest of drawers was sold in these rooms, October 16-17, 1987, lot 79.