Lot 912 , A late 17th century lac burgauté escritoire, W.2ft 9in. D.1ft 3in. H.2ft 3in.

A late 17th century lac burgauté escritoire, constructed from Ming dynasty iridescent pearl lacquer panels, with gilt copper mounts, the drop front drawer decorated with gardeners in a landscape, opening to reveal six pigeon holes and central cupboard flanked by eleven drawers, W.2ft 9in. D.1ft 3in. H.2ft 3in.
Estimate £400-600

It is not decorated to the top, showing signs of wear commensurate with age. Left side - some small scattered dents and chips, brass work to the lower left corner is damaged and pulling away. Right side - scattered dents and some wear to decoration, lower right brass work missing. Front - some vertical cracks running through the lacquer, notably one below the escutcheon, running straight down to the bottom. Although some of this is lost within the decoration, two further 6in. long cracks running to the left and right of this central crack. One from the escutcheon down to the clouds, the other through the tree branch. A further long crack running down from near the top right corner. Some wear to the decoration. Key works the original lock. Internally plain black finish which is very dusty but does clean away. Handles all look original, no key for the central locked door. Secret vacant compartment slides out to reveal three further drawers.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £650