fitted with a gilt tooled leather writing surface, three frieze drawers, one of the bronze scalloped side mounts has been removed to reveal the ZJ mark from the bronze master model

Denise Ledoux-Lebard, Le Mobilier Français du XIX Siècle, Les Éditions de l’Amateur, Paris, 2000, pp. 373 and 645

Overall in fair condition and presentation with the usual minor hairline scratches and minute nicks to veneers and carcass consistent with age and use. Tarnishing to gilt-bronze in places also consistent with age and atmospheric conditions through the years. Oxidation throughout gilt bronze mounts. Minor light surface scratches to the leather surface. Some scattered restorations to the veneer and some age cracks. Small losses of veneer, some with inpainting. Key present. We strongly advise the buyer to wax and French polish the veneers to bring back the former colour and life to this piece of furniture.
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.

Maison Jansen (1854-1929) was founded by Jean-Henri Jansen and has had an outstanding reputation from the moment Jansen established his business (circa 1880) at 9, rue de Rocroy as tapissier-décorateur. Jean-Henri Jansen was born in the Netherlands, where he began a career in a decorating and architecture practice before opening his own company.  In 1885 he moved his company to the fashionable area of 9, rue Royale. He was awarded a Silver Medal at both the 1883 Amsterdam Exhibition and the Paris 1889 Exposition Universelle. Jansen’s commissions included pieces for William III of the Netherlands, Alfonso XII of Spain, President John F. Kennedy and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. The employees of Maison Jansen were just as impressive as the patronage, including the renowned Stéphane Boudin and Pierre Delbée, two of the most influential tastemakers of the 20th century.  Due to the popularity of Jansen’s style, branches of the company were launched worldwide, including offices in New York, Milan, London, Rome and Alexandria. It is internationally observed that Maison Jansen is one of the most renowned interior decorating firms of the 20th century; it is further interesting to note that Jansen was a clients of François Linke.