French Napoleon III Rosewood Secretaire with Inlays

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Napoleon III "Bombé" Secretaire – Floral Marquetry in Fine Woods and Gilded Bronzes – France, 19th Century

A Napoleon III-style … Read more Napoleon III "Bombé" Secretaire – Floral Marquetry in Fine Woods and Gilded Bronzes – France, 19th Century

A Napoleon III-style secretaire dating back to the second half of the 19th century. This piece perfectly embodies the opulence and refinement of French cabinetmaking of the period, featuring a rare curved and curved line on both the front and sides.

Cabinetwork and Marquetry: The structure is entirely veneered in rosewood and rosewood, with magnificent inlay work featuring floral and leaf motifs in light woods (maple and boxwood) that stand out against dark backgrounds. The arrangement of the decorations follows the curved lines of the piece, creating a visual dynamism typical of the "Transition" style revisited during the Second Empire.

Top and Appliqués: The piece is topped with a fine shaped marble top (veined red marble). The decoration is enriched by a rich array of gilded and chiseled bronzes: elegant caryatids on the uprights, small shoes on the feet, beaded frames, and finely crafted escutcheons.

Interior Architecture (Scarabatolo): The drawer, lined with leather and decorated with gold, opens to reveal a scarabatolo with an open compartment and four small inlaid drawers, offering a workspace as functional as it is aesthetic. The lower part is completed by three curved external drawers.

Condition: The piece is in excellent condition. The spirit polishing enhances the natural shades of the wood, and the gilding of the bronzes maintains a superb shine.

Dimensions: 68 x 33 cm, height 133 cm See less