Napoleón III Louis XV Secretaire, French, 1800s

Exquisite Louis XV style poudreuse or dressing table made in France during the Napoleon III period, mid 19th century. It presents extraordinary marquetry of good workmanship; different woods are used for the ornaments, both polygonal and floral. This light dressing table stands on four legs, the two front ones with sablots. Its mixtilinear profile front has two registers (although it looks like five), as well as a removable writing tray, with embossed camel leather, thus becoming a bureau or desk. All the fittings, including the handles, are of mercury-gilt and then chiseled bronze.

The envelope presents floral decorations of great delicacy, thanks to the combination of veneers of different tones (rosewood, violetwood and rosewood). It is this floral envelope that lifts, in two side flaps and a central one, revealing the magnificent dressing table. Once opened, a mirror is revealed in the middle and on the sides, storage space. It is curious that in the front these spaces have been treated as if they were drawers, with handles. Light, practical and versatile furniture.

They are pieces with great ornamentation. Something very common was the application of elements that simulated bronze, as in this case the brass filleting. Upholstery also lived a moment of splendor, almost completely hiding the structure of the chairs and armchairs. Dark woods were usually chosen, or stained or lacquered in dark colors, which harmonized with the rich upholstery and gilt details.
Dimensions:

Closed: 76 x 78 x 43 cm

Open: 114 x 125 x 43 cm.