Elegant ladies' secretary in the style of Louis XV – Napoleon III, around 1880

This exceptional ladies' secretaire from the Napoleon III period, crafted around 1880, exemplifies the highest craftsmanship and artistic refinement. Inspired by the works of the 18th century, particularly those of famous Ébénists such as Bernard II van Risen Burgh (BVRB), this piece of furniture combines functional elegance with luxurious materials.

Form & Design

The elegant solid oak body is artfully finished with exquisite rosewood and palisander veneers. The curved legs and harmoniously proportioned body design reflect the grace of Louis XV style. Of particular note is the masterful floral marquetry, which extends across the front and sides of the secretary in exquisite handcraft.

Elaborately gilded bronze fittings with floral decoration add a refined touch. They come from the renowned Quincaillerie Leclerq à la Providence, 151 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, Paris, a traditional manufacturer that has been producing high-quality fittings and locks since its founding in 1840. for luxury furniture ( link ).

Interior & Equipment

Behind the artfully decorated flap lies an interior that is as elegant as it is functional.

• Two small drawers provide space for writing utensils or personal items.
• Several compartments allow for the orderly storage of letters, documents or memorabilia.
• The writing surface is covered with the original leather, which has a gentle patinated finish and retains its historical charm.

The piece features high-quality original locks, ensuring security and authenticity. The secretary has been expertly refurbished and finished with shellac.

Origin & Provenance

An extraordinary piece of evidence confirms the exclusive provenance of this secretary: The piece was verifiably sold by Schneider & Hanau AG in Frankfurt am Main. The renowned company, founded in 1899, was a respected dealer of art objects and antiques until its liquidation in 1931.

Mass:

• Height: 94 cm
• Width: 57 cm
• Depth: 41 cm
  

A homage to the Paris Ébénisterie

This secretaire bears a direct stylistic connection to the works of Bernard II van Risen Burgh (BVRB), one of the most important cabinet makers of the 18th century, whose works can be admired today in renowned museums such as the Louvre in Paris and the Wallace Collection in London. A comparable secretaire was auctioned in Paris on October 24, 2018 ( Link ).

Similar ladies’ desks can be found in important collections and are depicted in works such as:

• Pierre Kjellberg – Le Mobilier Français du XVIIIe Siècle
• Judith Miller – Beautiful Old Things, p. 99
• Christopher Payne – 19th Century European Furniture
  

An artistic piece of jewelry with history

This secretary was not just a piece of furniture, but a personal retreat. Private letters were written here, diaries kept, or precious mementos stored. In the luxurious salons of the 19th century, such a piece of furniture served not only a functional purpose, but was also an expression of refined taste and social status.

Whether as a decorative highlight or as a stylish addition to a high-quality collection, this ladies' secretary tells the story of an era when furniture was not merely functional, but an expression of elegance, taste, and the highest craftsmanship. A true work of art that carries the spirit of bygone times into the present.