Offered by Galerie Gilles Linossier
Elegant plat desk stamped by the cabinetmaker Godefroy Dester, made around 1780. This piece of furniture perfectly illustrates the refinement of Parisian furniture in the last quarter of the 18th century.
Crafted in fine woods such as rosewood, it is inlaid on the front with sycamore and stained sycamore in delicate geometric patterns known as "à la reine," typical of the neoclassical style, and framed with fine veneers alternating amaranth and stained sycamore.
The apron opens with two drawers and a side pull covered in gilded leather with a small iron, a highly sought-after detail in 18th-century desks today, thus saving space and providing a useful solution. It also features two simulated drawers on the back.
The whole piece is enhanced with rich gilt bronze ornamentation; of corner drops in suspended drapery, of keyhole pulls and simulated keyholes decorated with a leafy garland topped with a large knot, finely chiseled, of a side pull decorated with a large circled stylized cross, and in the center of each of the two facades of a rosette of foliage blooming in their center.
The tapered rosewood legs, decorated with three beaded sycamore flowers, are topped with stylized gilt bronze capitals and finished with square gilt bronze sabots.
The double veneer frames, alternating light and dark woods, are a highly valued feature in late 18th-century furniture design. This created a strong contrast while maintaining a delicate and distinguished line.
The top, framed by a gilt bronze ingot mold with convex corners, is upholstered in antique black leather gilded with a small iron.
High-quality workmanship, combining the elegance of Louis XVI style, the richness of materials, and the discreet functionality of 18th-century furniture.
Its relatively modest dimensions make it a highly prized desk. Bearing the stamp G. DESTER, Godefroy Dester (died December 24, 1805), Master on July 27, 1774.
Original gilding
Restoration due to use and maintenance.
Dimensions: H 77 cm x W 130.5 cm x D 60.5 cm
