19th Century Louis XV Lady's Secretary

Elegant Louis XV – Napoleon III Style Lady’s Writing Desk, Circa 1880 This extraordinary Napoleon III period lady’s writing desk, crafted around 1880, demonstrates the highest craftsmanship and artistic refinement. Inspired by 18th-century works, including those of famous cabinetmakers such as Bernard II van Risen Burgh (BVRB), this piece of furniture combines functional elegance with luxurious materials. Form and Design The elegant solid oak body is artfully finished with fine rosewood and palisander veneers. The curved legs and harmoniously proportioned body design reflect the grace of the Louis XV style. Masterful floral marquetry, painstakingly handcrafted, extends across the front and side panels of the writing desk. Elaborate gilt bronze fittings with floral decoration add a touch of elegance. They come from the renowned Quincaillerie Leclerq in Providence, 151 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, Paris, a traditional manufacturer that has been producing high-quality fittings and locks for luxury furniture since its founding in 1840 ( link ). Interior and equipment Behind the artfully decorated flap lies an interior that is as elegant as it is functional. Two small drawers provide space for writing utensils or personal items. Several compartments allow for the orderly storage of letters, documents, or mementos. The writing surface is covered with the original leather, which has a slightly patinated finish and retains its historical charm. The cabinet has original, high-quality locks that guarantee security and authenticity. The writing desk has been professionally restored and finished with shellac. Origin and provenance An extraordinary document confirms the exclusive origin of this writing desk: the cabinet was evidently sold by the company Schneider & Hanau AG in Frankfurt am Main. The renowned company, founded in 1899, was a respected dealer in art and antiques until its liquidation in 1931. Mass: Height: 94 cm Width: 57 cm Depth: 41 cm A tribute to Parisian cabinetmaking This writing desk is stylistically directly related to the works of Bernard II van Risen Burgh (BVRB), one of the most important cabinetmakers of the 18th century, whose works can be admired today in renowned museums such as the Louvre in Paris or the Wallace Collection in London. A comparable writing desk was auctioned in Paris on 24 October 2018 ( Link ). Similar ladies' desks can be found in important collections and are represented in works such as: Pierre Kjellberg – Le mobilier français du XVIIIe siècle Judith Miller – Belles vieilles choses, p. 99 Christopher Payne – 19th Century European Furniture An artistic gem steeped in history This writing desk was not just a piece of furniture, but a personal refuge. Private letters were written in it, diaries were kept, and precious keepsakes were preserved. In the luxurious salons of the 19th century, such a piece of furniture not only served a functional purpose, but was also an expression of sophisticated taste and social status. Whether a decorative element or an elegant addition to a high-quality collection, this ladies' writing desk tells the story of a time when furniture was not just functional, but an expression of elegance, taste, and craftsmanship of the highest quality. A true work of art that transports the spirit of the past into the present.