Lot 29
  • 29

A fine engraved brass and red tortoiseshell inlay ebony and ebonized bureau Mazarin France or England, mid 19th century

Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • tortoiseshell, ebonized wood
  • height 31 in.; width 58 in.; depth 31 1/2 in.
  • 79 cm; 147.5 cm; 80 cm
the knee hole flanked on each side by three drawers, the desk centered by a single drawer

Condition

Overall in good condition with the usual defects consistent with age: nicks, dent and scratches to ebonized wood, tarnishing to all bronze mounts and the brass molded border of the tabletop. The brass inlays are well set into the tortoiseshell, as normally there tends to be lifting of those parts from atmospheric damage. Please note that the seven drawers originally had pullout looped handles which are no longer present, and there are filled holes above the keyholes. Some bronze drawer borders will need to be tightened back. To the canted corner of the desk, one can see overpaint and filler from tortoiseshell losses.
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.

Catalogue Note

The first bureau Mazarin is thought to have been delivered by the cabinet maker Pierre Gole (1620-1684) to the crown in 1669. It was not until the 19th century, however, that the term Mazarin came into existence, named after Cardinal Mazarin, minister under the infancy of Louis XIV. However it is doubtful that the Cardinal ever commissioned any such piece, as his death in 1661 would have been too premature for the development of this type of bureau.