Object Description
Antique Louis XVI style mahogany and ormolu bonheur du jour by Winckelsen
French, 1864
Height 105cm, width 73cm, depth 42cm
Charles-Guillaume Winckelsen (French, 1812-1871) is the craftsman responsible for this outstanding bonheur du jour. The design of this ladies’ writing desk is after one crafted by Adam Weisweiler (German, 1744-1820) in the late 18th century.
The slender cabinet includes an unusual set of doors that open to reveal a storage compartment. The clever construction includes one short panel door as well as a hinged twin panel door making it appear as if there are three storage compartments. Below is a writing surface framed by line marquetry.
With a twist of a key, the secretaire drawer opens to showcase four drawers as well as an extendable green leather-lined writing surface. The leather features a gold debossed frame, adding a further ornamental detail. Numerous ormolu mounts decorate the piece, accentuating the deep brown wood colouration as well as the individual compartments.
The desk is surmounted by a pierced galleried top, its surface covered with white marble. A similar design can be observed on the lower shelf which also acts as a stretcher. Four reeded baluster legs extend from the main carcass towards the bottom shelf, while four fluted tapering toupie feet with ormolu sabots support the whole furniture piece.
Of a very elegant design, this multifunctional bonheur du jour would be a magnificent addition to both traditional and contemporary spaces.