Louis XIV period Mazarin alcove desk "à dessus brisé"

A Mazarin desk featuring kingwood marquetry. It opens via four drawers flanking a central drop-front section designed to house a small cabinet for storing valuables.

The hinged top displays geometric patterns of circles and semi-circles incorporating rosettes. It reveals three small drawers and a false drawer that serves as a writing surface.

This elegant piece of refined proportions features a base with eight twisted legs and a stretcher made of solid Rio rosewood. This wood species was particularly rare and sought-after in the early 18th century; it is found almost exclusively in veneer form and very rarely as solid wood, due to its high cost and the difficulties associated with importing it.

Early 18th century. Two locks replaced.