Important French 19th Century Miniature Louis XV Lady's Desk, Possibly Maison Huret

Live Auction

10" (25 cm.) h. 11"w. Of fine rosewood and mahogany with intricately detailed marquetry inlay on slant front, top and sides, and having cabriole legs edged with ornate gilded metal ornamented at the front with to elaborate figures. There is a bronze edging around the top which matches the frame on the slant front marquetry panel, and there are two ornate gilt handles and key hole. The desk opens to a fitted interior with pencil drawers and velvet covered writing surface. In well-preserved condition although the desk could benefit from some tightening of joints; the finish is all original. French, mid-1800s inspired by the designs of the Louis XV era which was stylistically rejuvenated at that time in Paris. A period photograph of the famous Huret doll Blondinette showed her seated at a Huret table, with a desk alongside which is virtually identical to this desk. It is probable, but not certain, that both this desk and the desk in the vintage photograph were offered by Maison Huret.