TWO LOUIS XV STYLE TULIPWOOD VENEERED TABLES DE TOILETTES IN THE MATTER OF JEAN-FRANÇOIS OEBEN France, one table mid 19th century, the other circa 1890

both heart-shaped hinged tops opening to a mirror above two radiating compartments, the larger with a central rectangular drawer above a front leg that slides forward to reveal a lower compartment, the smaller with a lidded compartment above a single cupboard door.

 

 

Overall in good and fair condition with the usual minor scratches, dents and nicks to veneers and carcass consistent with age and use. The bronze elements are not gilded.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The original model of this interesting and unusual heart-shaped table de toilette was reproduced by numerous eighteenth-century cabinetmakers including Oeben, Topino, Dubois and Landrin. The following description was recorded in the inventory after Jean-François Oeben's death in 1763: “13 idem, une table de toilette à coeur, à trois pieds avec son abattant pans glacé, placqué de bois de rose, sur ce dernier de coquille il y a un panneau de fleurs nuancées de 17 pouces de large sur 18 pouces de long, sans bronzes prisée 72 liv.14, idem, une table pareille à celle cy dessus, garnie de ses chutes et pieds de bronze non doré, prisée 100 livres.”