A Louis XV style gilt-bronze mounted amaranth, tulipwood, burr maple, walnut, sycamore and marquetry table, possibly Austrian, late 19th century

the hinged top within a waved surround inlaid with marquetry depicting military trophies within an architectural setting with flowers, foliage and rockwork, opening to a single compartment, the frieze similarly decorated, on cabriole legs; with spurious stamp to the underside 'JME J. F. Oeben'

An attractive piece in very good condition, with only minor marks and scratches consistent with age and use. The top with one horizontal secure crack that is scarcely noticeable. Some minor shrinkage cracks on the sides. Light tarnishing to the gilt-bronzes.
"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 table is a faithful if simplified version of a mechanical table à la Bourgogne traditionally attributed to Jean-François Oeben (1721-1763) now in Madame de Pompadour's chambre à coucher at Versailles. In particular, the top displays a virtually identical marquetry. Two similar tables liseuses stamped by Oeben are known; the first in the Metropolitan Museum, New York (inv. no. 1982.60.61), the second in the Louvre (OA 10001).

An 18th century example of this table, formerly in the collection of Count Harrach, Vienna, was later sold from the M. Akram Ojjeh collection, Sotheby's Monaco, 26 June 1979, lot 191. It has been speculated that copies of this model, including the present table, could have been made in Vienna in the 19th century, a theory reinforced by the original lockplates 'E. O. SCHMIDT/WIEN' found on the example sold Christie's London, 18 September 2014, lot 63.