A German Baroque walnut and burr walnut bureau cabinet probably Dresden, second quarter 18th century

With scattered age and construction cracks, scuffs, scratches, dents and abrasions. Veneer with scattered cracks, losses, some buckling and lifting in areas. Scattered restorations and infill to veneer. Scattered losses to moulding. Lacking four hinges from doors. Fall front compartement inside top section lacking shelves, compartment beneath later fitted and with later drawer. Wooden drawer pulls later. Reifnished. Feet possibly later. In fair condition.
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.

Comparative Literature:
G. Haase, Dresdener möbel des XVIII Jahrhunderts, Leipzig, 1983, plate 49 and 50, p. 285.
Fig. 84 illustrates various cabinets conceived in a similar vein in walnut.

The form of the bureau cabinet derives from the English 18th century prototypes which were so popular in the German states. In Dresden, from 1734 in became one of the most recognized forms for an apprentice to proffer as his masterpiece.