Exceptional 19thC Louis XV-Style Gilt-Bronze Mounted Parquetry Desk - Jan's & Co
The listing
An exceptional, late 19th-century Louis XV-style gilt-bronze (ormolu) mounted parquetry lady's writing desk (bureau de dame / secretary). Boasting an elegant silhouette and masterfully executed details, this piece closely resembles the fine, high-luxury revival furniture produced by renowned European master workshops. This investment-grade piece bears the inventory/importer stamp of Jan’s & Co., Inc. Antique Importers (Los Angeles) on the wood structure. Jan's & Co. is globally renowned for sourcing and importing top-tier, authentic 18th and 19th-century European furnishings from Europe’s most prestigious estates. The desk features an inset, dark leather writing surface that follows the elegant, contoured shape of the desktop. It is beautifully accented with elaborate, bright gold-leaf (gilt) border tooling that remains crisp and vibrant. Constructed from fine exotic wood veneers, the desk surfaces display stunning, matched chevron parquetry and intricate geometric inlay across the main desktop, drawers, and upper tiered gallery. Lavishly decorated with heavy, high-quality cast gilt-bronze (ormolu) mounts. Sweeping asymmetrical rococo scrollwork, acanthus leaves, and floral motifs frame the apron, accentuate the drawer faces, and line the elegant cabriole legs down to the finely cast sabots. The raised back features a graceful, undulating shaped crest centered by a prominent rococo bronze mount. It provides a practical layout consisting of two small stacked accessory drawers on each side flanking an open central storage shelf. Equipped with functional drawers in both the superstructure and the lower apron, offering ample storage space for stationery, writing instruments, and valuables. The desk is in an excellent , gallery-grade antique condition. The inlaid wood retains a beautiful, rich patina with minimal age-appropriate wear. Gilt-bronze mounts are secure, highly detailed, and display a brilliant luster. Structure is solid and sturdy; all drawers slide smoothly. The top leather is in perfect condition, completely free of common antique leather issues such as cracking, deep stains, drying, or peeling. Dimensions (Total Overall) Width: 58 inches Depth : 24 inches: Hight: 46 inches Asking price is $4,500 OBO