MICHAEL Sheppard is keen to emphasise the quality of a number of desks in his sale in Durrow next Wednesday. But the auction has plenty more to offer than the splendid late 19th century, 7ft partners desk (Lot 256, estimated at (£2,000-£2,500), or the elegant late 19th century rosewood and marquetry Bonheur du dour (Lot 181, also estimated at 2,000-£2,500).

There are over 350 lots of Victorian and Edwardian furniture, as well as good Continental furniture of the more decorative kind.

A large ormolu mounted ebony and brass inlaid side cabinet, decorated with Sevres plaques of entwined lovers, could fetch £5,000. If that is far too fancy for your liking, then an 18th century oak Welsh dresser might appeal. It could make up to £4,000. A good 19th century mahogany inlaid bookcase, of elegant proportions and with arched glazed doors, has an estimate of £3,000-£4,000. A late 19th century mahogany and satinwood inlaid bureau bookcase, with a slope fronted base and bevelled glazed diamond pane doors, could make up to £5,000.

Lower down the price scale, rare late 19th century mahogany and brass grilled revolving bookshelves, with lyre panelled sides, will surely reach their upper estimate of £2,000. A pretty Victorian burr walnut and inlaid centre table, lot 116, has a catalogue estimate of £900-£1,200; a most unusual Victorian brass hallstand, complete with suspended mirror, could make £1,200; a pair of carved giltwood brackets, supported by putti and measuring around 18 inches high, is estimated at £800 to £1,200; and a neat pair of French 19th century gilt pier mirrors, surmounted by love birds, has a rather low estimate of £600-£900.

For curiosity value, a small Anglo Chinese chest, stencilled with mountain scenes, is dated 1820 and estimated at £300-£500. A Victorian walnut framed shaving mirror on a tripod has a similar estimate.