A William IV gilt-bronze mounted inlaid walnut, maple and mahogany bureau plat in the manner of Edward Holmes Baldock second quarter 19th century

the shaped rectangular top with inset leather-lined writing surface within five inlaid wood bandings and with a stylized gadrooned gilt-bronze boder, the conforming serpentine frieze centered by one frieze drawer applied with a gilt-brass pierced cypher for Lady Willoughby de Broke and raised on cabriole legs with foliate-cast gilt-bronze mounts ending in scrolled sabots.

Henry, 18^th Baron Willoughby de Broke (1844-1902), Compton Verney, Warwickshire

Sold following his death

Purchased by Colonel William Hall Walker, M.P. (1856-1933) created 1^st Baron Wavertree of Delamere, 1919

Overall good condition; the leather top with large loss to the left side approximately 12 inches by 10 inches by 6 inches and with cracks and scuffs and stains; cypher probably later added; the gilt-brass edge with losses to the gilding and with wear; mounts appear to retain original gilding; small loss to one banding of top to left side; underside of top with a butterfly patch to correct warpage; underside of top with a large glue block to left side; front right foot with extensive old worm damage and subsequent losses; overall with some old marks and scratches.
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.