French 19th Century Directoire Style Mahogany Cylinder Bureau

Object Description

A 19th century mahogany cylinder bureau with the rectangular top surrounded by a pierced brass gallery, above two mirrored panelled doors, the roll-top opening to reveal a sliding leather writing surface surmounted by three drawers and a shelf, above two frieze drawers, on fluted circular tapering legs headed by asperges and terminated by cast sabot. The mirrored paneled doors, and the roll top are distinguished by its brass inlays that beautifully frame and outline the design of the item. Together with the brass handles, the brass gallery and the brass toupie feet this cylinder bureau displays a modern elegance in perfect balance with the beautifully honey-coloured mahogany veneer.

Object History

The distinctive cylinder bureau is based on an 18th century design by Jean-Baptiste Vassou (1739-1807, maître in 1767).

Object Literature

Pierre Kjellberg, Le Mobilier Français Du XVIIIe Siècle, Paris, 2008, p. 896 fig.a, and p. 893.

Object Condition

Very good, wear consistent with use and aged, mirror plates with small corroded areas – detailed condition report on request

Object Details