Paul Sormani, Stamped Lady's Desk, Violet Wood Marquetry, 19th Century

Paul Sormani's Lady's Desk: A Burst of Elegance and a Tribute to BVRB This lady's desk in violet wood veneer is a testament to unparalleled refinement, characteristic of the exceptional furniture produced during the Napoleon III era. With its lively shape, it opens with three drawers on the front and rests on four elegantly curved, arched legs. The violet wood veneer, a precious species prized in the 18th century, gives the whole a warm and contrasting play of hues, enhanced by remarkably rich chiseled and gilded bronze ornamentation. The finely executed bronzes illustrate the art of gilding and chiseling, including a decorative ingot mold, offcuts at the ends of the legs, sabots protecting their base, as well as refined keyholes and frames. These ornaments emphasize the undulating lines and feminine character of the piece of furniture. The leather top, typical of precious desks of this period, completes its functional and luxurious appearance. This desk is part of the line of creations of Bernard II Van Risen Burgh (BVRB), a renowned cabinetmaker active in Paris in the 18th century. Directly inspired by his works, this model reproduces the delicate curves and rich ornaments characteristic of his style, while adapting them to the tastes of the 19th century. The original model of this desk is preserved in the Louvre Museum, a testimony to the durability and admiration for BVRB's talent. Paul Sormani: master cabinetmaker of the 19th century Born in Lombardy in 1817, Paul Sormani is one of the most emblematic cabinetmakers of the Napoleon III period. His talent for cabinetmaking and his attention to detail allowed him to establish himself in a very competitive environment. Settled in Paris, he first worked at 7 rue du cimetière Saint-Nicolas before moving his workshop to 10 rue Charlot in 1867. It was in this setting that Sormani perfected his art and specialized in the reproduction and interpretation of Louis XV and Louis XVI furniture. Sormani was recognized for his ability to adapt old styles to modern requirements, blending classical aesthetics with technical innovation. His works were prized by the Parisian and international elite, embodying the eclectic and luxurious taste of the Second Empire. Sormani's creations, including this ladies' desk, are distinguished by their quality of execution, both in the choice of materials and in the attention to detail. Stamped on the lock of the central drawer, this desk attests to Sormani's distinctive signature, a guarantee of authenticity and excellence. With harmonious dimensions — 100 cm wide, 51 cm deep and 76 cm high — it adapts perfectly to an elegant interior, both functional and decorative. A tribute to the art of French furniture By taking up an iconic BVRB model, Sormani is part of an approach to promoting heritage while responding to the growing demand for prestigious furniture in the 19th century. This desk illustrates the continuity between the centuries, mixing artisanal traditions and historical inspirations to offer an object that is both functional and artistic, a shining testimony to refined taste under the Second Empire. The text includes a detailed description of the object, insight into its historical context, and information on the craftsman who made it. This desk can be seen in my shop located in Rouen, right bank, at 57 rue Victor Hugo, 76000 France Possibility of delivery throughout France (ask for a transport quote) See you soon