18th Century French Antique Secretary Desk: Louis XV Rococo Period Furniture.

This video discusses a publication quality piece from the mid 18th century and discusses the Louis XV style (one of the most famous styles coming to mind when we think of the French decorative arts). This curvilinear style is considered an “anti-classical” one, also known as rococo, which draws its inspiration from nature. It is a purely innovative style as it is divorced from the influence of classicism, ancient art. This period piece, a work of decorative art, is classified in French as a meuble d’ébénisterie or a work of veneer art in English. This refers of course to the elaborately book-matched veneers, and it also evokes the number of different artists coming together to create such an improbable item out of the materials of nature in a time before running water and electricity.
These letter writing, secrétaire à abattant or fall front desks are multidimensional, versatile pieces. They are part desk, part storage cabinet, part work of decorative art. When this piece was made, they were more appropriate in a bedroom, and by the 19th century they became more accustomed to use in the office. Secretary desks of this quality were often considered salon secretaries, being nice enough for use and display in a prime room of the house such as a reception salon.
Many thanks to all viewers and subscribers,
Cole Myers
Myers and Monroe, LLC

[@wilgipp4653]

Hitting the feet with a vacuum in the 1750’s.
Always interesting with some humor.
Could listen to you all day. Thank you for posting these videos.

[@hansoncogen7772]

Thank you, Cole. You made me become interested in antiques. Do you mind teaching us how to speak so eloquently like you as well? Thanks. LOL.

[@melvillehayes6305]

Exquisite item from th mid 18th Century

[@MyersMonroe]

Thank you ! More videos on the way.

[@gregoryburridge726]

Many thanks. I do so appreciate the use of sunlight and space in these videos. Please keep them coming. Is this piece signed? I thought on first sight of the armchairs that they were from Grenoble,and that the secrétaire would likely be as well.I have a provincial 18c secrétaire which I enjoy ,that likely has its original desk leather , though really in distress,and and accompanying delightful ink mess.It's in solid oak chevron though the top is a replacement and the brass mounts are most probably too.I've never encountered the like elsewhere, and would gladly share some photos if you're interested. Yours,looking foreward.

[@MyersMonroe]

Unfortunately the piece isn’t signed - and yes as nice as this piece is there’s something non Parisian / rather grenoblois to it - please send photos to [e-mail] I’d love to take a look!