Napoleon III Inlaid Secretary, France

Details

Description

Napoleon iii abattant secretaire with "capriccio" inlays

period: france, second half of the 19th century (napoleon iii era, ca. 1860–1870)

… Read more Napoleon iii abattant secretaire with "capriccio" inlays

period: france, second half of the 19th century (napoleon iii era, ca. 1860–1870)

wood types: rosewood, rosewood, violetwood, and fruitwood inlays (maple, boxwood, walnut)

top: shaped "rouge languedoc" (or rosso francia) marble with a bird's-eye profile

trimmings: gilded and chiseled bronzes
detailed

refined and elegant abattant secretaire with a slender, flowing shape, typical of fine french carpentry from the napoleon iii era, reflecting the transition/louis xvi style.

front and dramatic inlays: the piece is characterized by an extraordinary richness of inlay. The main drop-leaf door features a large oval inlaid reserve in the center, featuring a finely meshed classical architectural scene ("capriccio with roman ruins, bridge, and arcadian landscape"). The two lower doors enclose two medallions inlaid with classical ruins and monumental vases immersed in nature. All the reserves are framed by refined filleted motifs, corner greek frets, and rosettes.

upper panel and sides: the sub-top panel houses a concealed drawer, embellished with a continuous inlay of interlocking geometric motifs. The sides of the cabinet are veneered with a herringbone grain pattern and rosewood four-leaf panels within rosewood frames, highlighting the high craftsmanship and attention to detail, even on the sides.

internal cabinet): unlocking the drawer (covered on the writing surface in vintage, blind-engraved and gilded green leather) provides access to the rich, curved cabinet: an upper open compartment overlooks a block of five drawers arranged symmetrically around a shaped central drawer. The interiors are finely veneered in light woods with contrasting green and brown trim.

lower compartment: concealed by the two lower doors are three spacious internal drawers with herringbone veneer on the front.

supports and bronzes: the cabinet rests on four slightly curved, cabriole-style legs. The shaped lower apron is embellished in the center with a rich gilded bronze applique depicting a classical urn amidst acanthus leaves, while the front feet feature finely chased gilded bronze sabots.

condition and technical notes

condition: excellent overall condition.

marble: the original veined red marble slab is retained, perfectly shaped to follow the contours of the cabinet.

locks and hardware: locks, escutcheons, and keys are present and working.

dimensions

height: 141 cm

width: 82 cm

depth: 34 cm (depth with the drawer open: 87 cm) See less