Pair of Napoleon III Serpentine Kingwood, Tulipwood & Marquetry Secretaire Chest

A pair of French Napoleon III (1852-1870) serpentine shaped secretaire chests, veneered in kingwood and tulipwood, with ebonised detailing, floral marquetry and ormolu mounts, each retaining its key. Each secretaire is surmounted by a shaped white Carrara marble top above a fall front disguised as three dummy drawers. The fall opens to reveal a blue baize-lined writing surface and a fitted interior with three small internal drawers. Below the writing section are four serpentine-fronted oak-lined drawers to each cabinet, all decorated with floral marquetry within kingwood crossbanded borders. Between the kingwood crossbanding, the ebonised drawer fronts are further detailed with a subtle turquoise marquetry pinstripe, adding a refined decorative accent. The sides are veneered in tulipwood, while the overall form is outlined with ormolu mounts. The contrast between the dark ebonised surfaces, kingwood and tulipwood veneers, floral marquetry and white marble tops gives the pair a strong decorative presence. A particularly useful and decorative pair, suitable for symmetrical placement within an interior. Their proportions also allow them to be used much like pedestal pieces, with the marble tops providing an ideal surface for vases, sculpture, lamps or other decorative objects. Provenance: Ex-film props pieces, from a specialist prop company, The Eccentric Trading Company, that supplied furniture and decorative pieces to thousands of film and television productions, including The Crown and Wonder Woman. Condition: The pair are in great condition and have been carefully restored, bringing them back to life while preserving their period character. There are historic signs of woodworm activity to the rear, which have been professionally treated. Dimensions: Height: 127.5 cm (50.20 in) Width: 64.5 cm (25.39 in) Depth: 37.5 cm (14.76 in)