Details
Description
Antique Louis XVI style writing desk, France, circa 1880–1900, with a veneered body, brass fittings, and two side extensions. The … Read more Antique Louis XVI style writing desk, France, circa 1880–1900, with a veneered body, brass fittings, and two side extensions. The clearly proportioned frame, the tapered legs, and the subtly structured veneer work create a formally cohesive and balanced overall impression. Historical context: Writing desks of this type originated in late 19th-century France, when the formal vocabulary of Louis XVI was revived and adapted for bourgeois homes. Small, freestanding writing desks were part of the furnishings of salons and ladies' rooms; they served for private correspondence and simultaneously represented the household's design aspirations. The side extensions expanded the work surface when needed without altering the compact basic form of the piece. Veneer and marquetry work of this quality points to the highly developed Parisian cabinetmaking tradition of that era. Features – Two 30 cm pull-out leaves on the sides extend the work surface to approximately 161 cm – Herringbone veneer on the drawer fronts, and cube marquetry and thread inlays on the top panel. Design: The piece adheres to the formal conventions of Louis XVI: straight aprons, tapered square legs with brass ferrules and brass sabots, and a central escutcheon in the form of crossed torches with a ribbon motif. The design is structured by contrasting veneer panels with fillet bands; three-dimensional ornamentation is largely omitted. The effect arises from proportion, lines, and the grain of the veneer – a restrained design principle characteristic of the style. The piece is refinished on all sides and can be placed freely in the room. Dimensions: Height 75 cm (height to bottom of frame 58 cm) × Width 101 cm × Depth 60 cm. Extendable to approximately 161 cm wide with both pull-out leaves (30 cm each). Material and condition: Veneered body, presumably rosewood, with light-colored thread inlays; brass fittings, collars, and sabots. One drawer with escutcheon. Well-preserved with age-related wear and visible patina, which contribute to the historical character of the piece. Professionally restored by Kastellan: inspected, cleaned, treated appropriately for the material, structurally checked, and safe for stability and function. See less
- Dimensions
- 39.76ʺW × 23.62ʺD × 29.53ʺH
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Wood
- Condition
- Unknown, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Brown
- Condition Notes
- Good — This vintage item remains fully functional, but it shows sign of age through scuffs, dings, faded finishes, minimal … moreGood — This vintage item remains fully functional, but it shows sign of age through scuffs, dings, faded finishes, minimal upholstery defects, or visible repairs. less
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Cancellation Policy - Prior to shipping or local pickup, buyers may cancel an order for up to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified.
Related Collections
- Imperial Furniture, Grand Rapids Writing Desks
- Bright Green Writing Desks
- Gunni Omann Writing Desks
- Rope Writing Desks
- Hot Pink Writing Desks
- Jean-Michel Frank Writing Desks
- Writing Desks in Salt Lake City
- Mahogany Writing Desks
- Lexington Furniture Writing Desks
- Walnut Writing Desks
- Arts and Crafts Writing Desks
- English Traditional Writing Desks
- French Writing Desks
- Green Writing Desks
- Ladies Writing Desks
- Louis XVI Writing Desks
- Stanley Furniture Writing Desks
- Maitland - Smith Writing Desks
- Italian Writing Desks
- Black Writing Desks
- Pine Writing Desks
- Japanese Writing Desks
- Louis XV Writing Desks
- Antique Writing Desks
- Bamboo Writing Desks