LOTE # 237

4,500

MID-19TH CENTURY FRENCH LOUIS PHILIPPE CARVED WALNUT SECRETAIRE CABINET

In stock

4,500
Categories: ,

Description

ABOUT THE ITEM

DIMENSIONS
H: 150 cm; W: 95 cm; D: 45 cm
MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES
WALNUT WOOD, HAND-CARVED
PLACE OF ORIGIN
FRANCE
PERIOD
1830–1860
CONDITION
CRACKS ON THE SIDES AND TOP,
WOOD IN EXCELLENT CONDITION

This beautiful piece was found in the house of old French aristocrats.

HISTORY

The Louis Philippe carved walnut secrétaire cabinet originated during the reign of King Louis Philippe I of France (1830–1848), a period marked by political stability and a growing middle class. This era saw a shift in furniture design from the ornate extravagance of previous styles to a more restrained, practical elegance that suited the tastes of the bourgeoisie. The cabinet reflects this transition, combining functional design with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Handmade by skilled artisans, such pieces were often commissioned for well-to-do homes, blending simplicity with refinement. The use of walnut, a wood both durable and aesthetically appealing, underscores the emphasis on quality and longevity, hallmarks of French furniture from this period.

The mid-19th century French Louis Philippe carved walnut secrétaire cabinet is a stunning example of craftsmanship and design from the era. Its elegant silhouette is both practical and refined, featuring clean, understated lines that were characteristic of the Louis Philippe style. The rich walnut wood, prized for its durability and fine grain, has a warm patina that highlights the cabinet’s hand-carved details. These carvings, often inspired by nature, include gentle scrollwork, showcasing the artisan’s skill while maintaining the restrained aesthetic typical of the period.

The cabinet is designed with functionality in mind, combining a secrétaire’s practicality with the stately presence of a fine piece of furniture. Its upper section houses a drop-front writing desk, which, when opened, reveals a series of small drawers and compartments for organizing documents and writing essentials. The precision of these interior elements, from dovetail joinery to the hand-fitted inlays, reflects the meticulous craftsmanship of the time. Below the writing section, the cabinet offers ample storage space with larger drawers or shelves, ensuring it is as useful as it is beautiful.

The cracks in the walnut wood of the secrétaire cabinet tell a story of its age and authenticity, adding character to its antique charm. These fissures, varying in size and depth, have developed naturally over time as the wood expanded and contracted with changes in temperature and humidity. Rather than detracting from its beauty, these imperfections enhance its historical appeal, serving as a testament to the cabinet’s journey through generations.

This handmade secrétaire is not only a testament to mid-19th century French furniture design but also a piece steeped in history. The Louis Philippe period, known for its shift away from ostentatious ornamentation, celebrated the simplicity and elegance of form while still embracing quality and refinement. Such a cabinet would have been a treasured item in a well-appointed home, blending seamlessly into both formal and casual interiors. Today, it stands as a timeless collector’s piece, embodying the artistry and practicality of a bygone era.

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