“Bonheur-Du-Jour” Ladies Writing Desk

First popularized in the 1700s, the “bonheur-du-jour” became fashionable as a delicate style of ladies’ writing desk. The French name translates to “happiness of the day”,  thought to be a reference to the joys of letter writing.

This elegant Victorian-era desk is a superb example of this style, blending rich woods and pastel porcelain adornments throughout. The desk is crafted from amboyna and thuya woods exhibiting wonderfully swirling grain in contrast with ebony trim inlays. The central front desk drawer pulls out to reveal a retractable blue leather writing surface with luxurious gold tooling.

Fine severs porcelain plaques depicting historical figures Madame Du Barry and Madame De Montesson adorn the upper desk top cabinetry adding striking presence. Porcelain panels with bright floral motifs accent the front drawers and bottom turned columns. Also crafted in delicate porcelain are floating cherubs adoring the top corners of the mirror in further artistic flare. Finally, gilt bronze ormolu ribbons and trimming highlights the gallery, columns, and frame the porcelain artwork adding rich enhancement.

57″ High x 52″ Wide x 21″ Deep

Circa 1860

SOLD