A Louis XVI tulipwood, amaranth, sycamore and rosewood marquetry and parquetry secrétaire à abattant by J. C. Ellaume, circa 1780

the rectangular brown-veined white marble top above a panelled frieze drawer with canted corners above a fall-front enclosing an arrangement of shelves and six drawers, the leather writing surface with monogram J. L. D., the lower section with two doors opening to reveal one shelf, on bracket feet; stamped thrice I. C. ELLAUME and twice JME, remounted

This secrétaire is in reasonable conserved condition, with minor marks and scratches consistent with age and use. The marble top with minor marks, scratches and chips. There are minor losses, namely one to the frieze drawer, and traces of restoration, most notably to the right canted corner. The floral marquetry with traces of re-colouring. There are faint age-related shrinking cracks to the fall-front. The left return with minor lifting to veneer, most notably to the upper frieze. The rear left bracket foot and the bottom frieze to the right return with one piece of veneer missing each. The associated gilt-bronze mounts displaying light tarnishing. Overall very attractive piece, ready to be placed.
"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."

Jean-Charles Ellaume, received maître 1754.

Ellaume was active in in the rue Traversière, Paris during the course of three decades, and seems to have supplied furniture for other marchands-ébénistes such as Léonard Boudin.