A Louis XVI Style Gilt Bronze Mounted Amboyna Marble-Top Secrétaire à Abattant

Late 19th Century

Height 59 3/4 x width 31 x depth 18 3/4 inches.

Property from the Estate of Michael L. Wilkie, Chicago, Illinois

This lot is located in Chicago.

Michael L. Wilkie (1941-2021) was the owner of one of the most renowned penthouses in both Chicago and the nation. Recently offered for sale for the first time in nearly fifty years, the penthouse occupies the entire top floor and roof terrace of 1500 Lake Shore Drive, which was built in 1927 by celebrated architect Rosario Candela.

Wilkie, who grew up in Long Grove, Illinois as well as Montecito, California, played a critical role in expanding his family business, the DoALL Company, which came to include over 70 companies around the globe. His father, Leighton A. Wilkie, founded DoALL and invented the metal-cutting bandsaw, one of the most widely used tools in manufacturing today. Michael Wilkie worked for and ran the business for 60 years.

Photos courtesy of Andrew Miller and The Baines Group, Jameson | Sotheby's International Realty.

In overall fine and stable condition. Retains an even, refinished surface throughout. The top drawer opens by activating a small button beneath the support rail, that is only accessible when the writing surface is open. The interior fitted compartment concealing a drawer with further compartments. The tooled black leather writing surface is in good condition, though is replaced. Retains a functioning key. There is one element of molding that is detached, but retained. Scuffs, marks and scratches consistent with age and use. Areas of lifting to the veneer in few areas, with few other areas of veneers loss or patching. More losses visible to the U-shaped stretcher element, likely an old separation of that joint.
A few nails lacking from the bronze mounts leading to slight separation in the wood. Appears to retain the original marble top, which is relatively free of wear or any significant losses.

Condition reports are available upon request. All lots are sold “as is,” in the condition they are in at the time of the auction. The physical condition of lots can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to inspect a lot personally or through a knowledgeable representative prior to bidding. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Prospective buyers must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction, and it is the responsibility of the buyer to ensure that they have requested, received and considered any condition report.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

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European Furniture & Decorative Arts

A Louis XVI Style Gilt Bronze Mounted Amboyna Marble-Top Secrétaire à Abattant

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