A North Italian ivory inlaid ebony, rosewood and marquetry table cabinet, Lombard first quarter 17th century

the front with a panel inlaid with a two satyrs seducing two maidens, with an iron handle on each side, opening to reveal a central architectural niche enclosing two short drawers with a drawer above and below a long drawer panelled to simulate three drawers flanked by three drawers on either side, the whole inlaid with scrolling foliage within geometric reserves and grotesques

In overall good conserved condition. There are scattered age cracks generally and other vertical cracks in the sides some of which appear to have been filled in the past but are opening up again. There are minor losses to the veneer which would benefit from some minor attention. There is evidence of the previous locking system above the top edge of the fall-front. The engraving on the two corners of the door has been lost on the ivory. There is a variation in the lion mask backplates on the internal drawers which might bereplacements as internally there is evidence of previous fixings. There are some minor losses to some of the ivory stringing and some minor lifting to the veneer on the top. The ivory has yellowed with age but the varnish can probably be removed according to taste. The locks and feet are probably later.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Gilda Rosa, I Mobili Nelle Civiche Raccolte Artistiche di Milano, Milan, 1963, no. 131 (Inv. 495) for a very similar example.

This cabinet is also similar to one in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, accession no. X.203.