This exquisite pair of secretaires, crafted in late 19th-century France, embodies the timeless elegance of the Louis XVI style.
Each piece is crowned with a pierced, galleried top encircling a glass pane. Beneath this, a refined frieze is adorned with oval Sèvres style porcelain panels, framed by an ornate ormolu border. The porcelain panels are embellished with gilt and jewelled decorations, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of their creators.
The iconic bleu céleste hue dominates all the porcelain panels, paying homage to the renowned shade developed by Sèvres in the 18th century. The lockable fall-front doors feature large, square porcelain plaques depicting charming, classical hand-painted scenes. These vignettes are enriched with pastel-coloured flowers and plants, contrasted by vivid hues in the figures’ garments, drawing the viewer’s attention. The scenes are framed by a floral gilt border accented with delicate ruby-red jewelled details. Smaller floral paintings scattered across the blue background add further visual interest. One of the paintings bears the artist's signature.
Flanking the central door are two fluted, tapering columns crowned by half-human, half-animal figures, possibly fauns, adding an element of mythological charm. The interior features four textile-lined drawers, a velvet-lined shelf, and a leather writing surface, all providing practical functionality. Below, three lockable drawers offer additional storage, each decorated in a manner consistent with the fall-front door, featuring Rococo-style genre scenes.
Each secretaire is further enhanced by two large porcelain panels mounted on either side, framed by intricate pierced ormolu. The design culminates in a porcelain and ormolu-mounted frieze, unifying the aesthetic of the pieces. The secretaires rest on four legs, the front two elegantly shaped for added refinement.
With their ample storage compartments and elegant design, these antique secretaires would make a stunning addition to any interior space, combining functionality with artistry.
