A Chinese export black lacquer and gilt bureau, late 18th century

the fall-front enclosing a fitted interior with six short drawers four pigeon holes and a door above two short and one long drawer with a handle on each side, the detachable base of rectangular form with a shaped apron on cabriole legs terminating in ball and claw feet, the whole decorated with chinoiseries depicting rockwork, chrysanthemums, birds and butterflies

In overall good conserved condition. Attractive craquelure to the lacquer with some very minor chips and losses. There is a restored vertical hairline crack in the left hand side which is opening up again. There are some losses to the aventurine on the inside of the drawers. The escutcheon is loose and just needs re-fixing and also the handle on the right hand short drawer and the backplate is bent and would benefit from some minor attention. There is some warping in the top of the base which is attractively decorated with some restorations. There are some minor losses to the border of the top. There is also some restoration to the lacquer on the border to the top. There is a transport label Bedel & Cie and the number 60890. Some minor retouching to lacquer.
"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."