French Louis XVI Mahogany Writing Desk Tric-Trac Game Table circa 1785

A VERY FINE FRENCH ORMOLU-MOUNTED MAHOGANY TABLE Á TRIC-TRAC
Paris, circa 1785

29 3/8" H x 22 3/4" D x 45 1/2" W; 23 3/8" knee clearance

A fine table à tric-trac crafted in mahogany with gilt-bronze mounts of the late Louis XVI and Directoire periods. The reversible top is lined in a gilt-tooled brown leather to function as a stylish writing table, then rotating to the baize-covered side for card play. The top can be easily lifted off to reveal a backgammon (trictrac) board beneath with early playing pieces, the surface beautifully veneered in ebony with alternating bands of green-stained and white triangular inlays for game play. Either end hosts a finely dovetailed oak-lined drawer for storing the gaming components and writing accessories. Raised on tapered legs with bronze sabots and corner mounts. The underside is stamped in ink "46".

Condition: Excellent condition, ready to place. The tric-trac surface was possibly refreshed in the early 19th century, as was fashionable to do at the time, and is of a remarkably good quality. Refinished at some point in the 20th century; the leather and green baize are replaced. Minor age related cracks and fissures in the veneers from shrinkage over time. A few splices to the veneers (corner of a drawer, squared patch on top). Minor surface blemishes/scuffs, mostly to the corners and high wear points. One side with a scratch visible in the images that has since been retouched. Ebonized wooden pads added to the ends of the feet - ebony pads have not been removed to see if castors may have once been on the legs.

ref. 510RLW01C