Our favorite style, the lift-back with stationery compartments for writing paper, envelopes, notes, a pen tray and 3 openings meant for 2 inkwells and a ponce. The original key locks it all away beautifully for show of that immensely worked boulle - so much brass inlay against the 'noire' it's like starlight. An upscale polished brass pencil edging trims it out perfectly and the cartouche gives the eye a resting place, planet amid the starry night. Imagine your desk lamp reflecting upon this one! Elegant French cabinetry made during the heyday for a proliferation of opulent boxes of all manner and for all use. The period, Napoleon III, is mid-Victorian, c.1850-70, plus or minus on that earlier end. If you're used to visiting Paris, and make use of apartments in the various arrondissement, you know space is at a premium, and living space seems scaled down (to us who are used to huge rooms, at least). It's the same with so many creations of the French - containers of incredible things layered into small but elegant spaces. This is the desk. More opulent than a simple slope, and more efficient in size than a full desk, it serves decoratively atop a table until it is needed. I love them all. If you've followed us over time, you already know that.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. Fine quality, I quite expected to see the engraved TAHAN maker mark on the lock plate. Amazingly, not a single loss to all of that inlay of brass, nor to the substantial brass pencil edging. The elaborate lid front adding an element of exquisite design, as well. The wood on interior is also just gorgeous, as you can see. I see very small signs of age, use. I have an 'x' near a spot most notable. All hinges and aspects work smoothly, no warp. The old original inkwells are no longer with it, but of rather standard size, one can quite easily replace those. The original cut silk velvet writing surface in complete, has a few spots one might try to improve, but no holes nor shredding, is still suitable for use or display. Full measurements noted on our photos. We can't keep these in stock, and they're harder to find than ever. Don't miss this one. Who knows when we'll find another.
