A Masterpiece of Cabinetmaking, Born of Exceptional Expertise
The manufacturing of this piece attests to a remarkable technical mastery, requiring advanced skills in cabinetmaking. The walnut vine chosen for this secretary is a rare and prestigious material, prized for its wavy grain and its subtle play of contrasts. Its extraction and processing require great expertise: only the hand of an experienced artisan can select, cut, and shape this delicate essence, revealing all its natural beauty without compromising its solidity.
The construction relies on mortise and tenon joints, ensuring exceptional robustness and longevity. The drawers are mounted with dovetail joints, a process recognized for its solidity and resistance to time. Moreover, these drawers slide perfectly, testifying to the quality of the craftsmanship and the care taken in their adjustment. The piece is also equipped with a back in solid wood, reinforcing its structure and authenticity.
An Elegant and Functional Secretary
This piece opens with a lid covered in leather in good condition, offering a pleasant and stable writing surface, positioned at an ideal height. Upon opening it, one discovers a sumptuous interior theatre composed of five finely made drawers, perfect for organizing documents and personal belongings. Four exterior drawers offer additional storage space.
The piece rests on so-called “pistol” legs, typical of the Louis-Philippe style, which bring finesse and lightness to the whole.
A Saint-Anne Marble with Timeless Refinement
The top in Saint-Anne marble, magnified by its elegant white veins, gives this secretary an extra charm. Its finely molded contour, forming a “pair of buttocks,” is a distinctive feature of refined 19th-century furniture. Beyond its aesthetics, this marble protects the structure of the piece and accentuates its prestigious character.
A Piece Loaded with History, Designed to Stand the Test of Time
Originating from a secondary residence belonging to a notary on the Atlantic coast, this secretary has accompanied generations in their daily activities, from correspondence to administrative management. A true witness to the discreet and functional luxury of the 19th century, it now finds its place equally in an elegant office, a refined living room, a classic library, or a sophisticated bedroom.
Condition and Functionality
No restoration has been carried out. This piece is in a remarkable state of conservation. Carefully cleaned, it is ready to accommodate your personal belongings in its storage spaces. A key in perfect working order allows the lid to be opened and secured. A second key opens the exterior drawers, although their lock is no longer functional.
With its sober and timeless elegance, this secretary integrates perfectly into a classic interior, refined décor, or an office where history and modernity mingle. This piece embodies the excellence of 19th-century cabinetmaking—an inheritance of know-how and tradition, ideal for lovers of fine pieces and discerning collectors.