A German brass-mounted oak chest probably Westphalia, mid-18th century

Schloss Beichlingen in Thuringia, confiscated during the so-called “Bodenreform” 1945-1949 by the authorities of the Soviet occupied territory in the later GDR and placed in museums. Restituted to the family of the present owner on basis of the Ausgleichsleistungsgesetz in 2011.

The decorative brass mounts are atmospherically tarnished. The top has two large age cracks running parallel to each other with some smaller cracks apparent at the edges. The base has some minor restorations above the bun feet. The back has two small museum inventory labels from Zeitz Museum. The piece was not inspected internally as it is currently locked and will require professional assistance to open. Old marks and scratches throughout consistent with age and use. For all sales which take place on or after 1 February 2015, please note that the rate of buyer's premium for each lot (charged as a percentage of the hammer price achieved for that lot) has been revised and shall be calculated at the thresholds set out below: Buyer's premium is 25% of the hammer price up to and including £100,000; Buyer's premium is 20% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £100, 000 up to and including £1,800,000; Buyer's premium is 12% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £1,800,000. As stated above, the revised thresholds are effective as of 1 February 2015.
"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."