Object Description
Louis XVI style mahogany, satinwood, ebony and ormolu writing desk by Donald Ross
English, Late 19th Century
Height 73cm, width 108cm, depth 64cm
This excellent piece, a table à écrire, or writing desk, was made by Donald Ross, an important English maker active in the late nineteenth century, in the manner of Jean-Henri Riesener, the renowned, highly acclaimed and towering ébéniste of the Louis XVI period in France. It features a rectangular top surface mounted with a gilt-bronze edge, in which is set a finely tooled gilt leather surface.
This, like the frieze drawers around the sides, is set within a lattice veneer parquetry border. The table is divided by a central ormolu appliqué, and is mounted upon tapering square legs, further adorned with gilt elements. It is a beautiful piece, a combination of English craftsmanship, French design, functionality, and great antique style and grandeur.