After Simon Oeben

gilt-bronze, mahogany, fruitwood strung, kingwood and satine parquetry and with a leather inset top above frieze drawers

This large desk is of impressive proportions and is finely made - it would be a dramatic addition to any interior. The gilt-bronze mounts are attractive but tarnished. Some of the veneers are discoloured and there is some lifting and some very minor losses. The red leather top has numerous old marks and scratches, as well as some stains. There are separations to some of the joints, notably to the frieze and this movement and slight bowing would require some workshop attention. Some of the mounts are loose. After some attention this would make a practical and attractive desk. There are in fact three frieze drawers to each long side (the side not visible in the photograph is conceived in a simpler way, it is identical but is without the gilt-bronze borders around each drawer, all else is the same. One assumes this is to avoid 'catching' on clothing.
"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."

The original bureau plat on which this is based, was by legendry 18th century cabinet maker Simon Oeben and was made circa 1765. It originally belonged to the Duc de Choiseul-Praslin, Prime Minister for Louis XV, and can be recognized in one of the gouaches by Van Blarenberghe of the interiors of Choiseul's house, circa 1770. The contents of Choiseul's house were sold in 1796 and Oeben's model was purchased by the Duke of Hamilton. In turn the Duc d'Aumale purchased the piece from the Hamilton Palace sale of 1882 (lot 878). This is now in the Musée Condé at the Château de Chantilly.

The original bureau plat was copied by some of the leading cabinet makers after its release from the Hamilton Palace Collection, most famously by Paul Sormani. An example by Sormani was exhibited at the Paris 1900 Exhibition (Art Journal Catalogue, 1900, p. 125).