Sumptuous mahogany chiffonier with a secret drawer (circa 1800).

Magnificent piece of furniture full of surprises! Mahogany veneer, around 1800. Majestic in stature, this chiffonier actually conceals a secretary section. The first three drawers are indeed a trompe l'oeil and reveal, when opened, a delightful small tray covered in original olive morocco leather. It is stamped with a cold iron mark on the surface and gilded on the edges. There are 5 compartments and two drawers with beautiful small pull handles (the one on the right offering internal compartments). Yet the spirit of the 18th century still lingers over this piece, which hides a second secret! Indeed, by pulling the compartment towards oneself, one discovers, veneered at the back of the furniture, a secret compartment quietly resting in silence, capable of holding numerous secret documents (guilty love letters, cash, or conspiracy plans...). The lower section opens to 8 drawers with very beautiful fronts adorned with gilded bronze handles (probably added later but from the same period, handcrafted) and original lock entries. The latter reproduce the Z of the original key, which opens both the secretary section and the drawers themselves. The locks are functional. The uprights are rounded, fluted, and ribbed. The mahogany here is rich in warmth and brightness, contrasting wonderfully with the bronze and white marble. The marble is in perfect condition, originally shaped in a curve on all four sides. There are a few minor repairs, an almost invisible crack repaired on the right side, and some age-related imperfections (it comes from a beautiful property in Neuilly-sur-Seine) but is in excellent overall condition: stable, solid, usable as is, and incredibly classy. A rare piece. H: 153 cm. D: 41 cm. W: 98 cm. Secretary section: 87 X 32 cm. Drawer interior: 85 X 34 X 9 cm. The price is firm, thank you. Delivery possible in Île-de-France to your doorstep for 40 euros.