A gilt-bronze-mounted fruitwood, stained sycamore and inlaid tulipwood, kingwood, amaranth, parquetry secrétaire à abattant, stamped twice J Del Moulin JME Louis XVI, late 18th century

with a rectangular white moulded marble top above a frieze drawer, the quarter veneered fall front opening to reveal a fitted interior with later leather lined writing surface and four long, two short drawers and pigeonholes painted to simulate satinwood, above three long drawers on block feet

Acquired from Mallett at Bourdon House Ltd, London, 13 February 1974.

Generally in good restored condition. There are repairs to veneers these are where lifting has occurred. There are also some minor chips and age cracks to veneers. The frieze drawer with a crack to the carcass. There is some re-glued veneer above one of the lower exterior drawers and there is a small loss at this site. The fall with some fragmenting around the leather writing surface.
"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."