Summary:
• Item: Writing / Sewing Table
• Circa: 1870
• Period: 2nd Empire
• Wood: Mahogany
• Provenance: France
• Cabinetmaker: Alphonse Tahan
• Pullout sewing drawer
• Internal mirror
• Green gilt tooled leather top
• Cabriole legs edged in brass ormolu
• Original profuse ormolu decoration
• Fantastic quality & condition
• Superbly ornate design
• Original polish & patination
• Excellent condition
• Solid in joint
• Free 14 day UK returns policy
Here is a stunning quality antique Louis XVI revival mahogany writing / sewing table, circa 1870, in excellent condition, made by the renowned cabinetmaker in France, Alphonse Tahan (master cabinet maker to Emperor Napoleon III and his wife, the Empress Eugénie). The top features a top quality green gilt tool inset leather, flanked by a brass gallery. The lift-up lid opens up to reveal a central mirror edged in decorative brass beading on the underside of the lid. The internal lock is stamped ‘Tahan – Rue de la Paix 30’ and boasts its original working key. Two brass hinges support the lid; to the left hand side is an adjustable brass locking stay, allowing you to alter the angle of the mirror to suit your needs. Below, is a detachable mahogany tray incorporating several compartments. Further below, is a single pullout-sewing drawer, which includes further brass ormolu gilt decoration. The table is supported by slender cabriole legs, with stunning brass ormolu detail to the knees, edged in decorative beading, and terminates on ornate brass toe caps. This table displays profuse ormolu detail throughout; even the brass locking plates are etched with decorative inscribed detail.
The table features a dark brown mahogany colour (similar to an ebony colour). As it boasts the original polish, it has a fantastic colour and patination; this can only be achieved through age and years of care and cleaning it has received.
This truly is a beautiful and rare item, with exquisite detail and quality construction. It is rare to see one in such good condition. This item would look lovely in a variety of rooms from the hallway, office or bedroom. This item would certainly grace any home. So don’t miss out your chance to own a piece of history.
Provenance:
This exquisite piece illustrates all the signs of the superb quality and fine craftsmanship of Tahan’s workshop. Alphonse Tahan (1830-1880) was the official ébéniste de l’Empereur or master cabinetmaker to Emperor Napoleon III and his wife, the Empress Eugénie. Known for her beauty and impeccable taste, Empress Eugénie enjoyed a reputation as a trendsetter and favoured the workshop Tahan. Tahan also produced pieces for the wealthy and elite class in French society. Tahan Fabricant was located at 30 Rue de La Paix from 1849 and subsequently from 1878 at Boulevard des Italiens. His work was exhibited at “The Great Exhibition”, The London Crystal Palace Exhibition in 1851 and the Paris Exposition, Universelle in 1855, and on both occasions was awarded medals. His work can be viewed in the Victoria Albert Museum in London today. His work exhibits such quality and is in high demand by collectors and enthusiasts alike; it exhibited classical design and he only used the finest and costliest materials. Not only did he produce furniture, but also beautiful wooden boxes and fine bronze jewellery caskets.
Condition Report:
This sewing table is in excellent condition. Nominal old use marks to the leading edges, but nothing significant considering the age of the item. The table is fitted with a top quality replacement green leather. There are no marks, scratches or stains to the leather. The desk retains its original gilt brass ormolu detail, all of which is intact. Likewise, the desk features its original working lock and original key (which is rare to see). The brass lid stay is also original. The sewing drawer is smooth running and closes flush to the frame. The sewing table features the original polish, which is what gives the table its lovely dark patination. All in all, this item is in excellent condition considering its age.
Dimensions:
Height = 73cm or 28¾” or 2ft 4¾”
Width = 61.3cm or 24⅛” or 2ft ⅛”
Depth = 45.5cm or 18” or 1ft 6”
Knee height = 56.8cm or 22⅜” or 1ft 10⅜”
Terms & Conditions:
Before you purchase this item, please ensure you have read and are in agreement with our Terms & Conditions of Sale. If you have any questions regarding our Terms & Conditions of Sale, please contact us to discuss them, before purchasing this item.
Ref. Writing Table 27