Antique Louis XVI style mahogany and ormolu bonheur du jour by Winckelsen

Antique Louis XVI style mahogany and ormolu bonheur du jour by Winckelsen
French, 1864
Height 105cm, width 73cm, depth 42cm
 
Charles-Guillaume Winckelsen (French, 1812-1871) is the craftsman responsible for this outstanding bonheur du jour. The design of this ladies’ writing desk is after one crafted by Adam Weisweiler (German, 1744-1820) in the late 18th century.
 
The slender cabinet includes an unusual set of doors that open to reveal a storage compartment. The clever construction includes one short panel door as well as a hinged twin panel door making it appear as if there are three storage compartments. Below is a writing surface framed by line marquetry.
 
With a twist of a key, the secretaire drawer opens to showcase four drawers as well as an extendable green leather-lined writing surface. The leather features a gold debossed frame, adding a further ornamental detail. Numerous ormolu mounts decorate the piece, accentuating the deep brown wood colouration as well as the individual compartments.
 
The desk is surmounted by a pierced galleried top, its surface covered with white marble. A similar design can be observed on the lower shelf which also acts as a stretcher. Four reeded baluster legs extend from the main carcass towards the bottom shelf, while four fluted tapering toupie feet with ormolu sabots support the whole furniture piece.
 
Of a very elegant design, this multifunctional bonheur du jour would be a magnificent addition to both traditional and contemporary spaces.
 
Previously sold at Christie’s, New York, 18 April 2013, Lot 343 ($25,000).
 
Artist/Maker: Charles-Guillame Winckelsen