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19th C. French Empire Style Louis Philippe Period Secretaire Abattant
$3,500
£2,665.63
€3,072.53
CA$4,896.48
A$5,503.32
CHF 2,865.98
MX$66,933.93
NOK 36,673.75
SEK 34,777.52
DKK 22,931.32
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About the Item
A Louis Philippe period (1830–1848) fruitwood secretaire abattant fall front desk.
Born in France in the mid-19th century, hand-crafted of rich solid fruitwood with warm wood tones, subtle grain detail, and nicely aged mellow patina over the whole. Finished in French Empire taste, having a molded cornice, concealed ogee frieze drawer with dovetail joinery, over fall front panel, opening to reveal original fitted interior gallery, with inset gilt tooled leather writing surface, large open shelf cubby, six drawers of various size, above double-door cabinet with brass shield escutcheon that opens to provide generous storage space, and an additional lower drawer for valuables hidden in the base molding, rising on square feet.
Dimensions: (approx)
56.75" High 41" Wide, 17.5" Deep
History/Back Story:
Louis Philippe furniture had the same types and forms as the earlier French Restoration style, but with less decoration; comfort was the primary consideration.
During the turbulent French Revolution and following Napoleon rule, Louis Philippe (1773-1850) remained in exile for 21 years until the Bourbon Restoration, when he became the King of the French from 1830 to 1848.
For the first time, the developing upper class–not the monarchy–influenced the progression of this style’s characteristics.
However, King Louis Philippe’s personality still inspired many aspects. His casual nature reflected this style’s informal, comfortable build. Much of the style was taken from the personality of the King himself. Unlike his Bourbon predecessors, he wore business dress, not formal robes, he lived in Paris, and he shunned ceremonies; he carried his own umbrella, and imposed no official styles.
In the years following the French Revolution, former aristocrats returned to their homes only to find many of their belongings seized and sold.
After Charles X issued reparations, wealthy families were once again able to purchase high-quality furniture. Cabinetmakers resumed the tradition of innovative design.
The increasingly affluent middle class also sought well-made pieces, leading to a higher demand for French furniture.
Many of these people, while wealthy, lived in small houses and apartments. Their need for pieces that fit in their homes resulted in pieces that are still highly sought-after because of their small size, such as this narrow case piece that conceals a full size drop-front - secretary style writing slope - work table, ample storage options for writing instruments, inkwells, important documents, currency, jewelry and other valuables. All in a compact size with minimal footprint, intended to take up as little floor space as possible, especially when not in use.
During the reign of King Louis-Philippe fine furniture was no longer restricted to royalty and aristocrats. Designs turned from extravagant and formal to refined and polished.
Furniture was functional, elegant, but still very simple. It included clean, rounded, gentle lines (doucine) and sparse adornment. These characteristics have helped contribute to Louis Philippe furniture style’s longevity.
Condition:
Great antique condition. Presents well, with beautifully aged patina over the whole. Closing in on 200 years of age, it presents with original antique character marks throughout including wear consistent with age and use. Strong, sturdy, stable, and structurally sound. Overall a wonderful example.
Delivered cleaned, hand waxed with polished hand rubbed French patina finish, ready for immediate use and generational enjoyment!
- Dimensions:Height: 56.75 in (144.15 cm)Width: 41 in (104.14 cm)Depth: 17.5 in (44.45 cm)
- Style:Louis Philippe (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1840s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Great antique condition. Beautifully aged patina over the whole. Nearing 200 years of age, it presents well, with original antique character marks throughout, all wear consistent with age & use. Strong, sturdy, stable. Ready for immediate use.
- Seller Location:Forney, TX
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5977230865512
About the Seller
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