A Vizagapatam ivory-inlaid wood table bureau, India, mid-18th century

with a hinged fall front cover opening to reveal small drawers decorated with engraved ivory foliate decoration, large drawer below containing various compartments and lidded boxes, profuse vegetal decoration throughout  

Bonham's, London, 5 November 1981, lot 14.

In overall good condition, some airline cracks around ivory design, one border along the cover missing, further sections of the ivory loose and some with recent restorations, one of the feet recently restored, the reverse plain with some wear to wood, missing the key of the lock, otherwise most of the design still intact, as viewed. We would recommend to contact a professional restorer to obtain a more detailed condition report.
"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."

A similar portable sloping desk is in the Clive Collection (see M. Archer, Treasures from India: The Clive Collection at Powis Castle, 1987, p.82, no.103).