French Louis XV Style Marquetry Bonheur du Jour Desk, Gilt Bronze Mounted, Circa 1880–1900
A late 19th century French bonheur du jour desk, executed in the Louis XV taste and richly inlaid with geometric marquetry throughout.
The form is elegant and feminine, raised on slender cabriole legs and fitted with a superstructure of open shelving supported by delicate turned uprights. The surfaces are decorated in repeating parquetry patterns, creating depth and movement across the warm-toned veneers.
Gilt bronze mounts accent the piece at every key point, including the gallery edge, drawer fronts, and leg mounts, adding both structure and ornament. The fall front writing surface opens to reveal a fitted interior, designed for correspondence and personal use, a hallmark of the bonheur du jour form which emerged in 18th century France as a more intimate writing desk.
The proportions are particularly well balanced, with a lightness that allows it to sit easily in a room while still offering presence and detail up close.
France, circa 1880 to 1900.
Condition
Good antique condition with wear consistent with age and use. Light surface wear to the writing surface. Minor veneer and finish wear in areas. Gilt bronze mounts with expected patina. Structurally sound and fully usable.
Due to the nature of this piece, it will be shipped via white glove delivery service for the highest level of care. Shipping will be coordinated after purchase, with final pricing provided by our third party shipping partner.
French Louis XV Style Marquetry Bonheur du Jour Desk, Gilt Bronze Mounted, Circa 1880–1900
A late 19th century French bonheur du jour desk, executed in the Louis XV taste and richly inlaid with geometric marquetry throughout.
The form is elegant and feminine, raised on slender cabriole legs and fitted with a superstructure of open shelving supported by delicate turned uprights. The surfaces are decorated in repeating parquetry patterns, creating depth and movement across the warm-toned veneers.
Gilt bronze mounts accent the piece at every key point, including the gallery edge, drawer fronts, and leg mounts, adding both structure and ornament. The fall front writing surface opens to reveal a fitted interior, designed for correspondence and personal use, a hallmark of the bonheur du jour form which emerged in 18th century France as a more intimate writing desk.
The proportions are particularly well balanced, with a lightness that allows it to sit easily in a room while still offering presence and detail up close.
France, circa 1880 to 1900.
Condition
Good antique condition with wear consistent with age and use. Light surface wear to the writing surface. Minor veneer and finish wear in areas. Gilt bronze mounts with expected patina. Structurally sound and fully usable.
Due to the nature of this piece, it will be shipped via white glove delivery service for the highest level of care. Shipping will be coordinated after purchase, with final pricing provided by our third party shipping partner.