拍品的状况可能存在极大差异，而由于其性质使然，拍品难以处于完美无瑕的状态。拍品均以拍卖时的状况出售。

In general, there are extensive losses, restorations and replacements to the marquetry, banding and veneers throughout. The top slightly warped and with two evident shrinkage splits with some modern corrective panels and staples beneath the top. There are extensive scratches, marks, scuffs, abrasions, dents, knocks and areas of discolouration to the whole as one would expect from age and use.
Cracks and losses to the timber in the sections at the bottom of the fall front. The carcase to the removable fitted interior with extensive shrinkage, bowing and general movement, resulting in the drawers being stiff to open and the lower long drawer of the interior is very difficult to open and should not be forced. The ledge just below the fall-front with two small oval patches of veneer missing, possibly where there were originally metal stops for the fall to rest on or otherwise areas of veneer patches which have popped off as a result of pressure. The fall front leans downwards when opened.
Shrinkage splits to the lower frieze before the feet. The back feet replaced.
Repairs to the lower backboards. Overall the construction is fairly rudimentary, but the secretaire is nevertheless structurally sound.
Evidence of old, apparently inactive woodworm throughout. Some minor mould deposits to the interior of the fall. Two keys.