Late 18th Century, Italian Lacquered Wood Bonheur du Jour

This refined Genoese bonheur du jour in lacquered wood, made in the late 18th century, is an elegant and functional example of Ligurian Neoclassical lacquered furniture. The piece features a light lacquer finish in soft pink tones, enriched with light blue fillets and delicate polychrome floral decorations, harmoniously distributed across the front, superstructure, and drawers.
The structure is articulated with an upper superstructure fitted with two small sliding tambour doors concealing two compartments, and three lower drawers. The main writing surface is hinged and can be opened, allowing the usable surface of the desk to be increased while preserving the original lacquer during use—an ingenious functional detail typical of the most refined writing furniture. When open, the drop-front rests on two lateral pull-out supports that ensure stability.
The interior of the piece and of the drawers is lined with blue patterned decorative paper, a rare and highly charming detail that attests to the careful attention given to decoration even in areas not immediately visible. Beneath the hinged writing surface is an additional drawer fitted with a lock, left unlined. The piece is completed by a tilting footrest, a comfort feature that further confirms its intended use as a salon or boudoir writing desk.
This is a piece of furniture of notable quality, bright and highly decorative, embodying the Genoese tradition of 18th-century lacquer work and successfully combining elegance, functionality, and strong appeal for collectors. Its compact yet slender proportions make it particularly versatile and suitable even for smaller interiors, whether paired with antique or contemporary furnishings.
A conservative restoration will be carried out shortly.