A German walnut, stained fruitwood, ivory and pewter inlaid marquetry and parquetry games table Dresden, circa 1720-1730

the removable top decorated with musicians and birds, the reverse of the top decorated with a chess and a Morelles board, the interior fitted with an inlaid backgammon board

In overall very good original condition. There are some minor repairs to the veneer and the marquetry decoration of the top. There is a repaired hairline crack to the chess board
"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."

Comparative Literature
H. Kreisel, Die Kunst des deutschen Möbels, Munich, 1970, Vol. II, fig. 53 and Gisela Haase, Dresdner Möbel des 18. Jahrhunderts, Leipzig, 1983, fig. 149a for a very similar table top formerly in the Royal Castle of Moritzburg/Saxony attributed to the Dresden court cabinet maker Peter Hoese (1681-1761).

Peter Hoese (1681-1761) and Dresden Baroque furniture
Peter Hoese was the successor of Michael Lindner and worked from 1720 onwards as court cabinet-maker at the Residenz in Dresden after he had held positions in France and Italy. Characteristic of his work is the high quality of the ivory, tortoiseshell and pewter marquetry. He also worked successfully in the 'Boulle' technique.

The art of furniture making in 18th century Dresden is closely linked with the high quality of all artistic achievements of that time in Dresden.
After the coronation of the elector Friedrich August I of Saxony as King of Poland nearly all artistic categories boomed. This became especially visible in the ambitious architectural projects for important Royal residences such as the Zwinger, Pillnitz, Moritzburg, Großsedlitz and the Japanese Palace. The construction of these magnificent centres of Royal representation resulted in a equally high quality furniture production making Dresden one of the leading furniture centres in Germany.

A games table attributed to Peter Hoese was sold at Hampel, Munich, 22nd June 2007, lot 59, for € 55.000.