19th Century French Bonheur du Jour Desk

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We are very pleased to be able to offer this rare antique French walnut and marquetry inlaid Bonheur du Jour, … Read more We are very pleased to be able to offer this rare antique French walnut and marquetry inlaid Bonheur du Jour, or Ladies Writing Desk, for sale. Our experts have dated it to around 1850 and have assessed it as being in truly excellent condition, as you can see from the photographs supplied. This wonderful desk features cut brass and purpleheart inlays and there are a number of superb ormolu mounts making it a perfect example of quality design. This really is a very fine example of just how good kingwood can look and the inlay work is clearly that of an accomplished craftsman who was used to working with such top quality and valuable materials. This French bonheur du jour features a pair of glazed doors at the top which open to give access to a shelf. The interior has been expertly relined in a sumptuous burgundy damask. There is a bombe’ shaped fall which opens to reveal an inset green leather writing surface which features a gold tooled, embossed edge detail. Also revealed are the three spacious drawers which provide useful storage for your stationery and other office items. Behind the fall you will find two hidden slides that provide access to the well. The table is mounted on elegant, swept cabriole legs and we are pleased to confirm that it is supplied with its original locks and keys. As you would expect, all of the decorative escutcheons are original as are all the ormolu mounts. These items have all been skillfully cast and gilded and are all in very good, original condition as can be seen from the photographs. See less