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Louis-Philippe Secretary Desk in Burl Walnut, Circa 1845
About the Item
Antique Louis-Philippe Secretary Desk in Burl Walnut, Circa 1845 – From the Loire Valley
This extraordinary Louis-Philippe secretary originates from a historic château nestled in a charming village along the banks of the Loire River, France’s renowned “Valley of Kings.” Commissioned in 1845 by a distinguished notary, this masterpiece was crafted by a highly skilled artisan whose expertise was celebrated throughout the region.
The artisan selected burl walnut for its unmatched beauty, featuring intricate natural patterns, contrasting tones, and swirling grain. These unique details make this piece as much a work of art as a functional piece of furniture.
Designed to embody elegance and discretion, this secretary served as the notary’s private space for correspondence, safeguarding important documents and letters destined for prominent families of the French kingdom. Its thoughtful construction ensures both security and refinement, earning it the name “secrétaire,” meaning “keeper of secrets.”
The piece boasts four meticulously crafted drawers, including a concealed serpentine drawer at the top, and a central panel that folds down to reveal a leather writing surface—still the original leather from its creation. Behind the abattant, a miniature “theater” is unveiled, complete with six small drawers and two ingeniously hidden compartments on either side. A secret spring mechanism, embedded within the structure, unlocks these compartments, adding a touch of intrigue. Additionally, the center drawer conceals a false bottom, accessible only by removing the panel inside.
Every drawer is dovetail-jointed for durability, ensuring they glide smoothly and securely hold even heavy objects. The brass “fil” keyholes are flush with the surface, maintaining the sleek, understated design. The top of the secretary, crafted from solid walnut, is edged with a finely carved “double curve” molding known as “paire de fesses.”
This secretary rests sturdily on elegant “patin” feet at the front and straight feet at the back. The back panels, made from solid wood, are robust and built to last.
Over generations, this piece has preserved family treasures, from love letters and vineyard plans to vital documents hidden during the French Resistance in World War II. Its original patina bears witness to its remarkable journey through time, offering an authentic glimpse into 19th-century French craftsmanship.
Why bring this French treasure into your home?
This secretary is more than a functional piece of furniture—it is a statement of elegance, history, and sophistication. Its presence transforms any room, adding warmth, charm, and a touch of European heritage. Imagine it gracing a study or living room, serving as a conversation starter or the centerpiece of your décor.
Restored with care, its interior has been thoroughly cleaned to provide a fresh, odor-free space for your items.
Acquiring this Louis-Philippe secretary means owning a piece of French history, an heirloom that connects the grandeur of the Loire Valley to your home. It is an invitation to rediscover timeless elegance and to make a historical artifact part of your modern life.
- Dimensions:Height: 60.24 in (153.01 cm)Width: 72.83 in (184.99 cm)Depth: 17.32 in (44 cm)
- Style:Louis Philippe (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1845
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. In very good condition.
- Seller Location:SAINT-CLÉMENT-DE-LA-PLACE, FR
- Reference Number:Seller: 281stDibs: LU9582243014612
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: SAINT-CLÉMENT-DE-LA-PLACE, France
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