Early 19th Century Mahogany Sidetable, Ladies Desk, France, circa 1810

Paris
Mahogany
Empire around 1810

Dimensions: H x W x D: 80 x 53 x 34 cm

Description:
Lyra writing and work table based on a design by Pierre de La Mésangère from: Collection de meubles et objets de gout, “Table de Travail”.

Two lyres connected by a sturdy cross strut, above which an intermediate shelf in the form of a half-cylinder serves as an intermediate shelf for sewing work, support the high frame, which is divided into two zones by a surrounding profile of gilded bronze. Below the profile is a drawer with a writing surface.
To the right of the writing surface, which can be pushed back when the box is open to reveal the large compartment below, is a row of smaller compartments that were originally used to hold a sandbox, inkwell and pens.
When the table top is raised, the working dish in the upper part of the frame becomes accessible. To the sides of a large open centre compartment are four smaller compartments closed by lids and two recessed grips. A pincushion is attached to one of the lids and a candlestick to another. A large mirror attached to the inside of the table top reflects the light of the candle.

The excellent quality of the materials used, in particular the wood, locks and fittings as well as the very fine, richly fire-gilt bronzes, reflects the precise craftsmanship of the furniture.

Worth knowing:
Pierre de La Mésangère (1761 Pontigné – 1831 Paris) taught literature and philosophy at the college of La Flèche, which was closed during the Revolution. He went to Paris and in 1799 took over the editorship of the “Journal des Dames et des Modes”, a fashion magazine similar to the “Magazin des Luxus und der Moden” published by Justin Bertuch in Weimar from 1786.
It reported on all aspects of fashion, interior design and social life. At the same time, regular issues of the magazine “Collection de meubles et objets de goût” were published, in which the latest furniture, textile room decorations and carriages were presented.

Condition:
Absolutely authentic and refurbished to preserve the patina. During the careful restoration, the original polish was only lightly touched up, thus preserving the warm colour of the naturally aged mahogany.