A Queen Anne parcel-gilt black-japanned desk-and-bookcase circa 1710

The upper section with a flat molded cornice above a pair of cupboard doors each fitted with a later arched bevelled mirror plate and opening to two adjustable shelves above a level of pigeon holes and banks of scallop-fronted small drawers, the lower section fitted with a slant-front opening to a later velvet lined writing surface before a sliding panel and valanced pigeon holes above small drawers, the case fitted with a pair of short drawers above two graduated long drawers raised on bracket feet.  Restorations to japanned surface.

With Mallet at Bourdon House, 1982

Christie's, New York, April 7, 2006, lot 270 ($50,400)

Overall fair condition; the japanned surface restored throughout and with areas of lifting in places though it appears that the majority of the original surface survives; the mirror plates to the upper section are replaced; backboards to the lower section possibly replaced; old repaired breaks to feet with some areas of old worm damage; panels to the backs of the mirrors appear to be re-painted and with vertical age cracks; the decoration stable overall.
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.