Object Description
This elegant writing desk was created in France in the late 18th Century, during the reign of King Louis XVI (1774-1792). The desk is designed in a refined Neoclassical style which was fashionable in this period.
The walnut writing desk is composed of an oval body which is covered with tooled leather and is encircled by a brass gallery, featuring pierced geometric patterns. The desk’s body is decorated with marquetry designs, composed of flower heads and guilloche motifs. Two leather-topped writing slides can be pulled out from the sides of the desk by way of brass knobs. The front panel also pulls out to reveal a drawer with a main section and two smaller side compartments. This drawer features a brass keyhole and escutcheon which is decorated with a ribbon bow and foliage swags. The writing desk stands on four turned and tapered legs, which feature marquetry fluting. These are set on brass feet.