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Pair of antique Sèvres style porcelain and ormolu mounted secretaires

Creator: Sèvres Porcelain / Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres
Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Pair of antique Sèvres style porcelain and ormolu mounted secretaires
French, 19th Century
Height 126cm, width 55cm, depth 33cm

This stunning pair of 19th century French secretaires captures the refined charm of the Louis XVI style, blending artistic beauty with practical design.

Elevated by four elegantly sculpted legs—two of which feature a more graceful front design—each piece is of a very high quality. The sides are adorned with large hand-painted porcelain panels framed by intricate pierced ormolu, adding sophistication from every angle.

At the top, a pierced gallery encircles a glass panel. Below, a beautifully crafted frieze showcases oval Sèvres-style porcelain medallions set within elaborate ormolu borders. These porcelain panels, rendered in the iconic bleu céleste shade perfected by Sèvres in the 18th century, are further enhanced by gilded and jewelled decorations that reflect the incredible skill of their makers.

The lockable fall-front doors are adorned with large square porcelain plaques featuring hand-painted classical scenes. These charming vignettes depict pastoral imagery with pastel flowers and plants, while the vividly coloured clothing of the figures provides a captivating contrast. Ruby-red jewelled accents embedded in the floral gilt borders add a touch of luxury. Surrounding the blue background are smaller floral designs, which create a visually engaging composition. One of the scenes is signed by the painter.

Flanking the central door, two tapering, fluted columns topped with half-human, half-animal figures, possibly fauns, celebrate the mythological worlds. Inside, the practical design includes a velvet-lined shelf, four textile-lined drawers, and a leather writing surface, all ideal for organising personal items or documents. Below, three additional lockable drawers provide further storage space and are richly adorned with Rococo-style genre scenes in keeping with the overall aesthetic.

This pair of secretaires combines timeless elegance with functionality, making them an ex

More Information

Documentation:	Documented elsewhere (similar item)
Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Glass, Ormolu (Gilt Bronze), Porcelain, Textile, Wood.
Styles / Movements:	Traditional, Louis XVI
Dealer Reference #:	17650
Incollect Reference #:	771135

Dimensions

W.	21.65 in;	H.	49.61 in;	D.	12.99 in;
W.	55 cm;	H.	126 cm;	D.	33 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery, located in London’s exclusive Mayfair district, specializes in exceptional art and antiques from the 19th and early 20th centuries, featuring works by renowned artists and craftsmen. With a focus on quality and historical importance, our diverse collection unites exquisite pieces that exemplify unparalleled artistry. | jamie@mayfairgallery.com | 44.207.491.3435 |