18th Century French Antique Secretary Desk: Louis XV Rococo Period Furniture.

Описание: This video discusses a publication quality piece from the mid 18th century and discusses the Louis XV style (one of the most famous styles coming to mind when we think of the French decorative arts). This curvilinear style is considered an “anti-classical” one, also known as rococo, which draws its inspiration from nature. It is a purely innovative style as it is divorced from the influence of classicism, ancient art. This period piece, a work of decorative art, is classified in French as a meuble d’ébénisterie or a work of veneer art in English. This refers of course to the elaborately book-matched veneers, and it also evokes the number of different artists coming together to create such an improbable item out of the materials of nature in a time before running water and electricity.

These letter writing, secrétaire à abattant or fall front desks are multidimensional, versatile pieces. They are part desk, part storage cabinet, part work of decorative art. When this piece was made, they were more appropriate in a bedroom, and by the 19th century they became more accustomed to use in the office. Secretary desks of this quality were often considered salon secretaries, being nice enough for use and display in a prime room of the house such as a reception salon.

Many thanks to all viewers and subscribers,

Cole Myers
Myers and Monroe, LLC