Antique Kingwood Parquetry & Ormolu Mounted Bureau Plat in the Louis XV Style

A late 19th century, circa 1880, kingwood serpentine-shaped bureau plat, decorated with parquetry inlay and ormolu mounts throughout, in the Louis XV style. An impressive piece, richly adorned with ormolu mounts, with each drawer framed by finely cast floral mounts. The top retains its original dark brown leather writing surface, while the elegant serpentine form is complemented by substantial cabriole legs terminating in ormolu lion paw feet. The desk is fitted with three drawers, with the right-hand drawer incorporating a lockable internal compartment, providing secure storage for valuable items. The desk is supplied with working keys for all locks, which have been newly cut to ensure full functionality. This substantial bureau plat does not bear a distinctive cabinetmaker’s stamp; however, it retains locks by both Vachette Frères and Alfred Schmitt, two respected Parisian lock makers. Vachette Frères locks are frequently encountered on pieces produced by some of the leading French cabinetmakers of the period. Additional marks include “HL” stamped to the reverse of one of the principal ormolu leg mounts, and “IVD” stamped to the reverse of one of the ormolu lion paw feet. A decorative and practical desk which is equally suited to use as a centrepiece desk, thanks to the reverse being finished to the same standard as the front.