Fine Russian Neoclassical Mahogany Bureau Cylindre "Trois Corps"

late 18th century, in the Jacob style, the galleried pediment with ormolu urn finials, above a triangular-patterned central frieze flanked to either side by a stepped gallery, above a conforming case fitted with a central astragal-glazed cabinet, flanked to either side by fluted uprights with Ionic capitals and a cupboard door, the lower section fitted with three small drawers over an oval-patterned cylindre opening to a mechanical pull-out leather-inset writing surface and a variety of drawers and cubbyholes, over a bank of four graduated drawers, flanked to either side by a recessed paneled cupboard and further flanked by a freestanding fluted column, raised on tapering square legs, the whole richly adorned with decorative inlaid brass banding and panels.
h. 93", w. 50-1/2", d. 24"

Notes: This rare "trois corps" bureau bookcase exemplifies the Russian "Jacob" style as it closely relates to examples illustrated in Antoine Cheneviere's Russian Furniture , (2001), 33. 124-126. Characterized by clear geometric lines inspired by Palladian architecture, the style is accentuated by elaborate brass stripping and cross hatching as evidenced by the inlaid drawers and tracery on the glass door offered here. This piece, clearly influenced by Roetengen, is more likely attributed to the workshop of Christian Meyer than Gambs and Ott. Though both firms supplied large quantities of Jacob-style furniture for the Imperial court, the latter incorporated more elements of the Empire style than the former. Other mahogany cylinder bureaus, bearing similar design and form, are conserved in the formal reception room of the Alexander Palace and Pavlovsk Palace.

**In excellent condition and clean throughout. The brass trim has scattered dings and small dents throughout, consistent with age and use. There is no sign of any missing elements. Professional old veneer patch repairs around the keyholes to the base drawer and doors. The tooled leather blotter is a fine replacement. The cylinder roll/writing lid functions well. Good, rich color and finish. Functioning keys present.