Large French Ormolu Mounted Desk 1900 - 1920

Name: Large French Ormolu Mounted Desk
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1244053
Price: 1950 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectDesks
Period1900 - 1920
StyleLouis XV Style
MaterialKingwood, Gilt Bronze, Leather
ColourWarm Brown
MotifsCabriole legs, Ormolu mounts, Parquetry veneer, Leather writing surface
SizeH 79 cm (31 in) x W 153 cm (60 in) x D 77 cm (30 in)

This large French Louis XV style bureau plat writing desk dates from 1920. Constructed from kingwood with tulip banding, the piece displays a warm brown palette across its parquetry veneered surfaces and an inset brown leather writing surface bordered by intricate gilt-bronze ormolu mounts. Ornate cast bronze pulls decorate the three drawers set into the apron, complemented by scrolling foliate ormolu mounts that sweep down the graceful cabriole legs. Finished on all sides, the desk measures 79 cm high, 153 cm wide, and 77 cm deep, allowing it to stand freely in an open interior space. In a contemporary home or office, the desk provides a distinguished writing and workspace suitable for a study, library, or spacious executive office. The finished back enables flexible placement away from walls, while the generous proportions offer ample surface area for daily tasks and writing. The combination of rich timber grain, refined gilt-bronze hardware, and classic serpentine curves creates a functional yet decorative focal point for traditional or eclectic interiors.

FAQs

A bureau plat is a French flat-top writing table that gained prominence during the 17th and 18th centuries, characterised by a large flat surface, integrated frieze drawers, and ornamental metal mounts.

These desks typically feature fine exotic wood veneers such as kingwood or rosewood arranged in geometric parquetry patterns, fitted with a leather writing insert and accented with gilt-bronze ormolu mounts.

Authentic period ormolu mounts feature detailed hand-chasing, mercurial gilding that oxidises unevenly over time, and fixing methods using hand-cut screws or pins rather than modern machine threads.

Incorporating a bureau plat into a modern study creates a distinct focal point, where pairing the piece with contemporary seating and minimalist lighting balances the detailed gilt bronze ornamentation.

Dust timber surfaces regularly with a soft cloth, treat the leather insert with suitable wax, position away from direct sunlight to protect the veneer, and clean metal mounts using gentle, non-abrasive methods.

Sussex Antiques and Interiors

Large French Ormolu Mounted Desk

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