18th Century French Louis XVI Marquetry Secretary Desk
18th Century French Louis XVI Marquetry Secretary Desk
An 18th century French Louis XVI marquetry secretaire, or secretary desk with bookcase. Beautifully made with book matched veneer of mahogany and fine inlay of walnut and mahogany. In two parts, the top bookcase has the original glass paned doors with working lock and key and opens to three adjustable shelves with an inside depth of 7". The bottom case has four dovetailed drawers: two large drawers at the bottom and two small drawers at the top, with a false drawer in the middle. The drop leaf desk opens to reveal four small drawers with a hidden compartment in the middle and a leather top writing surface. Polished bronze hardware with ring pulls and decorative escutcheons, two working locks and two keys. All original. Exceptional craftsmanship and very good condition for the age, retaining a high gloss finish. Some minor repairs to veneer and splits to the veneer on the sides. Please refer to photos for more details. Circa 1780-1790.
Overall dimensions: 85"H x 39"W x 20.25"D (35"D when desktop is open)
Top: 43.5"H x 35"W x 9"D (7"D interior)
Bottom: 41.5"H x 39"W x 20.25"D
Desktop clearance: 27.25"H
#80124
