Boulle marquetry writing desk in gilded brass and wood, Tahan Paris, Napoleon III, 19th century
Articles
Writing case in blackened wood and Boulle* marquetry (gilded brass), decorated with a numbered monogram on the top, signed Tahan** in Paris, rosewood interior, Napoleon III period, 19th century.
This writing desk is in its original condition. The lock is blocked (we don't have the key).
Please note: no leather on the writing part, some slight accidents, scratches and wear from time, see photos.
was born in the 17th century, under Louis XIV and owes its name to André-Charles Boulle, master cabinetmaker at the King's court (learn more about André-Charles Boulle) (1642-1732). Marquetry consists of placing noble materials inside precious woods. Having become First Cabinetmaker to King Louis XIV, Boulle's fame, combined with the splendor of Versailles, gave rise to a quantity of furniture and objects in Boulle marquetry, of exceptional inventiveness. Boulle brought a major innovation to his furniture: bronze ornaments to protect the most sensitive parts of his pieces.
Probably the most famous cabinetmaker of Emperor Napoleon III. It was under his leadership that his father's firm, Pierre-Lambert, took off and became one of the most famous in Paris. He practiced at 10, rue basse du rempart until 1847, then at 161 rue St Martin, 34 rue de la Paix from 1849, and finally at 11 boulevard des Italiens, from 1866 to 1878. This last address is the most prestigious, because at that time he had the confidence of Napoleon III. His specialties were boxes, caskets, small furniture in the style of bonheur du jour, and desks. He had large workshops and more than 200 workers around 1870. He participated in all exhibitions and competitions between 1849 and 1867. He won a silver medal in 1849, one in London in 1852, and the gold medal in 1867, as well as an honorary medal in 1865 awarded by the Central Union of Fine Arts. He became one of the personalities of his corporation, and practiced until 1882. We will especially remember his creativity, his talent, and the constant search for new materials and new techniques, which allowed the profession to become a little more expert. One of the greats of this era.