An ivory-inlaid scribe's table cabinet, Vizagapatam, India, circa 1800

the wooden body of rectangular form with a hinged frontal compartment sloping forward, with another hinged compartment to the back revealing three sections, both sides with lock plates, inlaid with ivory and incised and heightened with lac, the front with a central floral bouquet surrounded by borders of flowering scrolls and feathery leaves, two side-handles for carrying

In general good condition, few minor cracks on frontal surface, part of ivory border restored and replaced, small chip to one angle of base, as viewed.
"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."

Vizagapatam was a port on the East Coast of India, which in the late eighteenth/ nineteenth century was known for the fine ivory-inlaid furniture it produced, defining and reflecting the taste of its Western consumers. The borders on the present cabinet are decorated with exotic floral designs which probably find their origins in European botanical engravings such as those that also appear on other Vizagapatam work and Coromandel trade textiles from the same period.