A LOUIS XVI GILT BRONZE-MOUNTED MAHOGANY BUREAU PLAT BY F.J. PAPST, LATE 18TH CENTURY |

stamped F.J.PAPST JMEFrançois Ignace Papst, maître in 1785

Sotheby's New York, May 16, 1981, lot 147

Handsome bureau with some marks, small loses and fading on the front. Some rubbing to gilding and some mounts later. Pierced gallery slightly warped; not visually distracting. Leather top with wear and stains commensurate with age and use. Sturdy construction.
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.

Of German descent, François Ignace Papst ran a thriving workshop in the final days of the Ancien Regime, receiving commissions from the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne and supplying furniture for a number of royal residences including Fontainebleau, Compiègne, Versailles and Rambouillet.  His business managed to survive the Revolution and he continued his activity during the Empire period.  Much of his work is executed in mahogany and fitted with simple, refined gilt bronze mounts.