Louis XIV Period Box – Grenoble Work In Stained Maple Burl And Walnut.

France, Grenoble region, late 17th century Stained maple burl veneer, walnut frame, three-part purfling, leather-covered writing tablet. Dimensions: L. 43.5 cm × D. 33 cm × H. 20.5 cm This rare Louis XIV period writing case, probably from a Grenoble workshop, rests on a solid walnut frame, and is distinguished by its refined stained maple burl veneer, with powerful moiré reflections. This wood, selected for its decorative qualities and its appearance close to tortoiseshell, brilliantly imitates the visual effects of the luxurious marquetry of the late 17th century, in a decorative trompe-l'oeil approach. The panels, decorated with fretwork cartouches, notably in the shape of a gendarme's hat, are framed by a complex set of three-part fillets: a central fillet in natural walnut sandwiched between two black fillets (tinted walnut), according to a compositional logic inherited from the architectural pareclose, typical of the Louis XIV ornamental vocabulary. The interior of the box is entirely in walnut, divided into several compartments: A side compartment houses a small removable compartment with three slots, intended for writing accessories. The lid contains a large removable writing tablet, double-sided: one in walnut, the other covered in old leather, framed by walnut edging. This tablet was missing, it was remade with old wood and old leather, in perfect harmony with the whole. Once the tablet is removed, one accesses a hidden compartment, with two partitions. The box is in very good general condition. There are some small old veneer grafts, discreet and non-invasive. The original lock is still present and functioning, but the strike plate having disappeared, the box can no longer be locked. The piece has been cleaned, and the finish has been redone in keeping with the original, highlighting the visual depth of the maple burl and the refinement of the decoration. This box is a very fine example of late 17th-century French tabletterie, combining ornamental refinement, quality of execution and discreet functionality. An elegant, decorative and authentic piece, from a regional production center of great finesse.