A Victorian gilt-bronze mounted satinwood, mahogany and kingwood banded bureau plat, stamped C MELLIER & CO circa 1880

the top inset with a panel of silk needlework depicting a basket of flowers, the three frieze drawers with opposing dummy drawers, on fluted turned tapering legs, now with a bevelled glass protective top 

A very finely constructed piece of furniture incorporating fine veneers and high quality chased and gilded bronze mounts. The silk inset to the top is very worn with some losses and stains but is being protected now by a panel of bevelled edge glass. There are some stains to the brass edge of the top. The mahogany lined drawers are a little stiff. Minor old marks and scratches. A very pretty piece.
"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."

Mellier & Co of  60 Margaret Street, London, took over the celebrated Paris based firm of Monbro, who had premises in London between 1861 and 1870.  The stamp of the Mellier firm is reproduced in Christopher Payne, 19^th Century European Furniture, 1981, p. 317.