Louis XV Parquetry Vanity Table by Paul Seormani

This Louis XV Revival Parquetry Poudreuse is so much fun, and incredibly practical. Made in 19th century France by the legendary Paul Sormani, this elegant piece features a wonderfully curved top divided into three sections; the middle section lifts to reveal an antique mirror, while the other two open to reveal compartments for cosmetics, writing supplies, or anything you want to stash in this beautiful cabinet. The front is designed with a pull-out leather writing slide (perfect for your phone or mouse) and three small drawers, while the back showcases the exquisite shape of the piece. Crafted from kingwood and mahogany, it has intricate floral marquetry with gilt metal accents on the top, sides, pulls, chutes, and sabots. Coiffeuse, Poudreuse, Vanity Table, Dressing Table... whatever you call it, this is simply stunning!

Dimensions: 30" H x 38" W x 23" D.
Provenance: Made in Paris by Paul Sormani, purchased from a New York City private collection.

Paul Sormani is widely regarded as one of the most celebrated cabinetmakers in France, despite being Italian. He relocated to Paris in 1847, where he established his workshop and began crafting high-quality standard and "fantasy" furniture, which he referred to as meubles de luxe ("luxury furniture"). Sormani specialized in reproducing Louis XV and XVI styles, gaining immense popularity among discerning European aristocrats. Notably, Empress Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III, chose his exquisite pieces to adorn her palaces. Sormani frequently showcased his remarkable creations at major international exhibitions during the 1860s and 1870s, earning numerous awards. At the 1867 Paris Exposition Universelle, judges praised his work for its "first-order quality of execution."