French Kingwood Writing Desk 19th Century

Name: Superb 19th Century French Kingwood Writing Desk C.1890-1900, Serpentine, Marquetry Inlaid.
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1237484
Price: 3850 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectWriting Desks
Period19th century
StyleLouis XV Revival
MaterialKingwood, Leather, Ormolu, Wood Veneer
ColourWarm Brown
MotifsCabriole legs, Serpentine front, Marquetry inlay, Ormolu mounts

This nineteenth-century French Louis XV revival writing desk follows a serpentine outline in warm brown kingwood veneer with decorative burr walnut marquetry inlays. The piece stands on cabriole legs ornamented with original ormolu mounts and gilt bronze mounts, and incorporates a central drawer to the front alongside an original green leather top with gilt tooling. Measuring 99.5 cm in width, 73.6 cm in height, and 58.5 cm in depth, the desk presents an excellent condition finish. Practical for home placement as a compact workspace, this table suits a study, bedroom, or living area. The surface accommodates writing or laptop use, while the central drawer provides convenient storage for stationery and small items.

FAQs

A bureau plat is a flat-topped writing table featuring a central writing surface framed by decorative timber veneers and drawer compartments. Popularised in 18th-century France and revived throughout the 19th century, this style features serpentine outlines, curved cabriole legs, and ornate metal fittings.

These desks were typically constructed using a oak or soft-wood carcass faced with exotic timber veneers such as kingwood, tulipwood, or rosewood. Writing surfaces were finished with gold-tooled leather, and the corners and feet were protected with cast bronze or brass mounts, known as ormolu.

Authentic 19th-century pieces display hand-cut wood veneers, dovetailed drawer joinery, and heavy cast metal mounts tailored precisely to the wood contours. Examining the undersides for period hand-planing and inspecting the naturally aged patina on the metalwork helps verify age.

Position the desk as a standalone focal point in a home office, library, or living space away from direct modern clutter. Pair it with neutral wall palettes and contemporary seating to balance the detailed woodwork and gilt metal accents.

Dust the veneered timber surfaces using a soft, dry microfibre cloth and apply high-grade beeswax sparingly to protect the finish. Treat the inset leather surface with dedicated leather conditioner, and keep the desk away from direct heat sources or damp environments to prevent veneer lifting.

Charnwood Antiques

Superb 19th Century French Kingwood Writing Desk C.1890-1900, Serpentine, Marquetry Inlaid.

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