A Louis XVI ormolu mounted tulipwood, bois satiné and marquetry table à écrire, by Jean Georges Schlichtig, French (born in Germany), circa 1765

PROPERTY FROM THE ESTATE OF THE LATE MR NEVILLE H. GRACE, SYDNEY

the trellis and flower head inlaid top above two drawers, the top drawer fitted with an adjustable writing surface flanked by side compartments, above square tapering supports with sabot, stamped to the underside 'JME G. SCHLICHTIG'
87 cm wide, 78 cm high, 54 cm deep

Provenance

The Owston Collection, Bonham's Australia, Sydney, 26 June 2010, lot 1313 (illustrated)
Mr Neville H. Grace, Sydney, acquired from the above
Private Collection, by descent from the above

Literature

Pierre Kjellberg, Le Mobilier Français du XVIIIe Siècle, Les Editions de l'Amateur, Paris, 1989

Born in Germany, Jean Georges Schlichtig established his workshop in the Faubourg Saint Antoine in Pairs after receiving his Ma\xEEtrise in 1765. It is thought that he supplied furniture for Marie-Antoinette and the French Court. His production consists essentially in Transitional and Louis XVI, tulipwood veneered, parquetry and marquetry furniture.

Condition Report

Clearly stamped to the underside of the frame at the left hand side. Key present; both locks are double-locking and functioning. There is evidence of fading and dryness to the parquetry panel at the rear of the body, where the desk has been sitting against a window. This does not extend to the back surface of the rear legs. Slight variation in the colour at the back quadrant of the top from sunlight exposure and slightly darker circular patch to the centre, where an item had been displayed for a period of time, however the colour is generally strong. Light surface marks and isolated heavier marks near the centre. Slight dryness and hairlines in places to the crossbanded veneered border. Gilt metal mounts intact but tarnished in places. The interior of the bureau drawer is in good order; there is a vertical crease to the right hand quadrant of the leather mount of the writing surface, probably due to movement in the boards underneath. There are ink marks to the base of the lower drawer. Veneer losses in two places to the front apron, the largest approximately 1.5 cm wide and several of the inlaid patera have had sections of veneer replaced or filled. Minor wear and marks in places to the legs, however the desk is in good order overall and is structurally sound.

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 Australia is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Saleroom Notices regarding this sale. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT,ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS.