A North Italian parquetry desk, Lombard, in the manner of Fancesco Abbiati, early 19th century

the rectangular sliding top inlaid with an octagon with berried laurel flanked by a neo-classical figure within a foliate border with a patera, with a profile medallion at each corner within an alternating band of patera flanked by husks above a long frieze drawer flanked by two short drawers on facetted tapering legs joined by an x-form stretcher inlaid with guilloche enclosing a patera centred by an oval inlaid with cube parquetry on ball feet, the  frieze inlaid with seated addorsed figures flanking an urn feeding dragons; restored

Giocomo Wannenes, Mobili d’Italia, Il Settecento, Milan, 1984, illustrated plate LXII.

In overall good conserved condition. The colours are less orange with more contrast than the catalogue photograph and more attractive. The wood includes tulipwood, kingwood, walnut, fruitwood and amaranth. The top slides back revealing secret drawers. Old very minor marks, chips and scratches and very minor restorations to the veneer which have been well executed and are not too noticeable. There are some scattered age cracks in the veneer some of which have been filled in the past and are opening up again but these are not too noticeable and can be left. The secret drawers internally are lacking their handles but these can easily be replaced. The giltwood collars are slightly dirty with some wear to the gilding. There are some very minor losses to the veneer on the stretcher but these are not too noticeable. It is possible that the slide has been reveneerde and the top has suffered in the past and been restored and generally there has been some re-engraving in sections.
"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."

This unsusual desk with a top inlaid with neo-classical profile medallions, figures, foliage and paterae in various woods is very much inspired by the work of the celebrated ébéniste Francesco Abbiati (active 1780-1800). The classical motifs were inspired by Antique Roman wall paintings and marble friezes and also inspired the renowned cabinet-maker Giuseppe Maggiolini (1738-1814).