A Portuguese Rococo brass-mounted carved rosewood cômoda-papeleira bureau second half 18th century

Galeria Esslinger, Rio de Janeiro, 1929
Private Collection, Washington D.C.
Thence by descent to the present owners

Remounted with subsequent patches. Replaced hinges with old patches to interior of fall front. Applied carved motifs to corners of fall front- two on bottom both with small losses to applied carving. Proper right side's base molding with a restored break (approximately 12" in length). Age cracks, small chips, abrasions, and scratches consistent with use and age. Small patches and restorations.
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.

Papeleiras of this form represent the golden age of furniture making in eighteenth-century Portugal where English influences were combined with local Baroque aesthetics and fine craftsmanship to create a national style. The carved volutes at the canted corners were typical of Portuguese Rococo commodes and derived from ormolu espagnolettes, or figural corner mounts, on late Louis XIV, Régence, and early Louis XV commodes from France.