A rare 18th century French Louis XV period chateau bonheur du jour or secrétaire handcrafted of walnut by very talented artisans in Lyon for a wealthy chateau owner near Villeurbanne, circa 1750s. This impressive antique French secretary features a chapeau de gendarme crown above a pair of carved serpentine doors with brass mesh grilles and beautiful green and gold damask fabric backings that open to reveal a painted interior with two display shelves. Three carved drawers are below. The lower section features a flat serpentine shaped writing surface that lifts opens to reveal plenty of storage above a carved, scalloped apron with C-scrolls and a center carved shell motif. Raised on four elegant cabriole legs ending in scrolled French toes. This grand Lyonnaise French library desk with it's beautiful, rich patina has a fresh French polish that allows the wood to shine. All original iron hardware and a single iron key made to open all three locks. A true statement piece that is both functional and versatile. Would make a wonderful bar also.

Dimensions:

h - 103"

w - 54.5"

overall d - 28.5"; top d - 14.5"