A Dutch walnut and marquetry bureau-cabinet, mid-18th century

the compound serpentine cornice above two shaped doors enclosing a fitted interior, the fall front with a further fitted interior containing eight drawers and a central cupboard door above three long drawers 

Purchased by Henry Isaac Butterfield (1819 – 1910) for Cliffe Castle, Yorkshire;
By descent to his grand-daughter Marie-Louise Roosevelt Pierrepont (née Butterfield), Countess Manvers (1889 – 1984), whereupon moved to Thoresby Hall, Nottinghamshire in 1943; thence by descent.

A good piece with marks and scratches consistent with age and use, and traces of old woodworm which appears to be no longer active. There are fairly minor losses to the marquetry and veneer which have otherwise kept a very attractive colour. There are some secure construction and shrinking cracks on the front doors. The interior with some losses to veneer, although the marquetry is in very good condition. Part of the top drawer handle is broken and present, and can be re-attached. The left side with some flacking to the varnish and three shrinking cracks; the right side with some old restorations to the veneer and one significant shrinking crack to the bottom part.
"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."