A Viennese enamel and gilt metal-mounted ebonized grand secrétaire Austria, third quarter 19th century

lavishly decorated with biblical and mythological enamel plaques, the dome of the upper structure centered by a timepiece, the cabinet doors each opening to three drawers, the desk fitted with two frieze drawers

Christopher Payne, European Furniture of the 19th. Century, London, 2013, p. 301, for the illustration of a virtually identical model.

Enamel plaques with some small chips to edges and age cracks. One enamel plaque loose and detached, needs to be reglued. Gilt metal mounts with some rubbing, oxidation, and bending. Small sections of loss to mounts, now often with gold paint. Ebonized wood with some rubbing and wear to decoration. Small losses and chips. Usual scratches, nicks, and abrasions consistent with use and age.
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 lavish appearance of this grand secrétaire shows the talent of cabinet makers in the old Austrian Empire. They produced true works of art which showcased their many skills. These cabinet makers considered their work not as purely decorative pieces of furniture but as Fine Art. The Baroque style with its use of painted mythological and religious scenes offered an appropriate basis for the decoration of the present lot. Cabinets of this type with extensive and elaborate decoration of painted enamel plaques on copper were widely in vogue by the time of the 1873 Universal Exhibition in Vienna.