Mercier Frères A LOUIS XVI STYLE GILT BRONZE MOUNTED AND EN GRISAILLE DECORATED SECRÉTAIRE À ABATTANT IN THE MANNER OF RENÉ DUBOIS France, circa 1900

surmounted by a brèche violette marble top, a few bronze mounts have been removed to reveal the mark CC and four-digit numbers, the loop handles also marked CC, the interior of one drawer with the Mercier Frères metal tag, opening to a walnut interior fitted with five compartments and four drawers. 

Overall in good condition. The painted surfaces with crazing and related flaking, areas of overpaint, fading and wear. The gilt bronze mounts with tarnishing and surface dirt. The marble top with surface scratches and edge nicks consistent with age and use. The gilt bronze banding around the top en grisaille panel has lifted in the upper proper right corner.
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 en grisaille technique is a method of painting executed entirely in monochrome, using various shades of olive, grey, or buff tints, to represent objects in relief. It is rare to see this type of decoration interpreted by the 19th century admirers of important 18th century furniture. The designs were sometimes painted on friezes and medallions on 18th and 19th century furniture and paneling, to give an illusion of depth and carving. A related commode en demi-lune attributed to Dubois is in the collection of Alice Charlotte von Rothschild in the sitting room at Waddesdon Manor (see: Waddesdon Manor, The Heritage Of A Rothschiild House , Buckinghamshire, 2002, p. 189).