A Rare Chinese Export parcel-gilt black lacquer dressing table late 18th century

the divided serpentine-fronted hinged top opening to twelve lidded square compartments flanked by two large compartments with hinged lids before a dressing mirror sliding up, above a conforming frieze above a knee-hole fitted with three drawers and flanked by three graduated drawers raised on bracket feet.

Overall good restored condition; the lacquer with craquelure and now with a glossy finish probably to stablize lifting of lacquer; some small areas of inpainting to cracks and with areas of small losses and chips, mainly to extremities; overall sturdy.
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 present lot is part of a rare group of Chinese export dressing tables made in the late 18^th century, one of which was bought by George, the Prince of Wales for his bedroom at Brighton Pavilion.  Another example which was brought to the United States before 1800 by Captain William Gray of Salem is now in the Collection of the Essex Institute, Salem, Massachusetts.

See:

Carl L Crossman, The Decorative Arts of the China Trade, Woodbridge: 2001, pp. 263-288, plates 99, 149