A bois de citronnier, gilt-bronze and porcelain-mounted bureau en console, possibly by William Holmes Baldock the porcelain plaques English, attributed to Coalport and possibly painted by John Randall, circa 1830

with a moulded vert de Mer marble top above a fall front enclosing a leather-lined writing surface, small drawers and recesses



 



 

In good overall condition, the veneer repolished to a high standard, with some old and unobtrusive marks. The gilding with minor wear and surface dirt. Plaques in good condition with minor wear to gilding.
"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 present piece may well have been supplied by Edward Holmes Baldock (1777-1845). Dating from the second quarter of the 19th century, it is typical of the French style, which was so much admired in aristocratic English circles. Baldock was well known for supplying furniture in the French taste, often incorporating French porcelain, which was sometimes imported "in the white" and decorated in England. Baldock supplied furniture for many distinguished patrons including the Duke of Buccleuch at Bowhill, near Selkirk. 

 

See Sotheby's New York "A Private Collection Volume II", April 19, 2007, lot 124 for a similar lot.