AN EXCEPTIONAL NAPOLÉON III GILT-BRONZE MOUNTED EBONY, LAPIS, JASPER AND MARBLE CABINET, BY LOUIS-AUGUSTE-ALFRED BEURDELEY, CIRCA 1867 |

the circular pediment centered by Mercure's mask and the cornice above the architectural front; the upper part with Corinthian columns applied with interlaced laurel branches, opening with four doors lavishly applied with pietre dure medallions and gilt-bronze ornaments; the frieze opening with four drawers interspersed with red marble panels; the lower part opening with a central door applied with ribbon tied leaves and scrolls, and two side doors applied with the Three Graces holding a basin; the plinth applied with twisted laurel; stamped five times A. Beurdeley Paris

Exceptional piece of furniture in good overall condition. Images are quite accurate.The top with few restored cracks on the curved edge. The cornice with very few tiny ebony mouldings missing (not distracting). Some columns are turning on themselves. Several gilt-bronze ornaments are slightly moving. 1 front keyhole is detached on the far right door but present. 1 tiny gilt-bronze piece broken and missing on the far left small drawer.As expected, a few restored hairline cracks throughout the ebony surface of the door panels. Minor dents and chips on the edges and corners. 2 ebony pieces unstuck but present: on the bottom right of the interior column (right) and on the bottom right of the front exterior column (right). On the bottom central door, a small gilt-bronze piece of garland broken and missing on the lower right of the central ornament. Below the central door, one gilt-bronze rod detached but present. With 3 keys.Historical cabinet made for the 1867 Great Exhibition in Paris and iconic piece of the Second Empire style (Louis XVI revival), as well as a stunning testimony of the knowledge and of the technical virtuosity of Beurdeley’s workshops.
"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."