Antique Writing Desk, France 1800, Directoire Style

Antique writing Desk, France around 1800, Directoire Style.

Sleek design and elegant mahogany veneer are the special features of this spacious antique writing desk. Its top is covered with green leather (later). Additionally the top is extendable with two pull out shelves. Three drawers offer a lord of storage space. You do not have to put the desk against a wall, because the back has the same mahogany veneer as the front. This desk would be the perfect piece for a home office.

The Directoire Style

From 1789 to 1804, French furniture took a sharp turn, condemning anything associated with the Ancient Regime.

Previously predominant themes revolving around royal extravagance, noble power, and privilege were now perceived negatively.

Repressed by the revolutionaries, furniture guilds were no longer able to ensure the same degree of craftsmanship. They dissolved in 1791.

While this period was economically and socially troubled, personal wealth among private citizens grew. And as it did, so did the demand for furniture

Directoire furniture preserves the elegant and stately characteristics of earlier periods as can be easily seen in the antique writing desk offered here. 

But, like Gustavian design, the Directoire style is much more restrained. This moderation is evident in the elongated, uncomplicated shapes and clear lines of most pieces.

In interior design, painted wallpaper replaced rich tapestries. Also, upholstery and cretonne curtains took the place of brocades and damasks. 

The Directoire style comes to mind if you are looking for unpretentious French antique furniture.

Details

The antique writing desk is in very good condition. It has a nice original patina. It measures Height: 29.34 in. (74.5 cm), Width: 57.09 in. (145 cm), Depth: 27.56 in. (70 cm).

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