French School

shagreen veneer, green marble, ivory, the shaped top above three long drawers, the shaped front and sides covered with radiating shagreen veneer

A striking and rare form of good overall appearance. Piece is more vivid green with a more creamy ivory tone than suggested by catalogue illustration. Marble top in good condition overall, and looks likely to be Swedish Green marble. With an oak and beech carcase. Piece has undergone some restoration, to an undetermined extent. It has been suggested that the piece contains some elements of an 18th century commode but the age of the piece is not guaranteed. Personal viewing recommended. Shagreen in good condition. Interior has been stained a uniform brown and the oak drawers have been stripped of their stain, back to a lighter tone. Tops of drawers veneered with kingwood. Traces of new (?) green paint to the inside front edge to the interior. Minor traces of old woodworm in places. One section of ivory detached to one side of the front right foot (facing). Ivory chipped to side of rear left foot and also with a crack to the ivory to the upper part of the left front canted corner. Further images are available upon request. An attractive and elegant piece in good overall condition and ready for use and display. Prospective purchasers are reminded that this lot contains ivory which may be subject to export and import restrictions. For example, it is illegal to import elephant ivory under 100 years old into the United States. Your attention is drawn to the Endangered Species section in the Guide for Prospective Buyers on page 114 of the printed catalogue or upon request to the department.
"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."