Continental marquetry rolltop desk (bureau a cylindre), circa 1778

Era

Antique

Maker

Unsigned; attributed to a Continental ebeniste's workshop of the late 18th century

Dimensions

53 1/2 x 43 1/2 x 26 1/2 in. (135.9 x 110.5 x 67.3 cm)

Condition

excellent

Estimate

$9,500.00 – $14,500.00

Condition report

A superb example of case-piece marquetry, with the cylinder roll operating smoothly and all interior fittings present and functional. The tooled leather writing surface has been sympathetically replaced in a compatible period style; all other surfaces retain original veneer with only trace wear at the edges. Gilt bronze mounts have rich, largely undisturbed gilding. No structural repairs were noted on inspection.

Provenance

Acquired by a private American collector from a Continental furniture dealer in the 1990s and displayed in a formal study since that time. Consigned directly by that collector.