Lady's desk in Boulle marquetry, Napoleon III – Mid-19th century

A lady's desk from the Napoleon III era, adorned with sumptuous Boulle marquetry, named after Charles-André Boulle, cabinetmaker to King Louis XIV. This piece of furniture, crafted from ebonized pearwood with flowing lines, is distinguished by its rich inlays of chased brass against a tortoiseshell background, offering a deep and refined contrast. These brass applications depict interlaced scrolls, tendrils, and arabesques that enliven the entire front of the desk. The ornamentation is completed by chased bronze mounts: mounts, moldings, ingots, and finely worked keyhole escutcheons, which enhance the decorative and precious character of the piece. This small desk is topped with an openwork gallery. It opens with a drop-front framed by gilt bronze moldings, fitted with a working lock and its ornate key. The interior includes a niche, three small drawers, and a storage compartment concealed beneath a sliding tray. The drop-front is covered in red leather adorned with a gilt vignette and corner motifs, providing a generous writing surface. This lady's desk rests on four cabriole legs embellished with large, elegant bronze mounts. Each mount depicts a cherub with delicate features surrounded by acanthus leaves. A chiseled molding adorns the edge of each leg and terminates in a foliate finial. A charismatic work of art, this Napoleon III desk will bring a majestic presence and historical elegance to your interior, combining functionality with exceptional craftsmanship. ******* Period: Mid-19th Century. Excellent condition after restoration in our cabinetmaking workshop. Delivery available in France and internationally upon request. Dimensions: Width: 75 cm. Depth: 48 cm. Height: 92 cm. Reference: 358V.