Table écritoire Transition Louis XV-louis XVI En Marqueterie De Chasse Par André-louis Gilbert

Transition Louis XV-Louis XVI Hunting Marquetry Writing Table by A.L. Gilbert, c. 1775

This exceptional kidney-shaped writing table features a gilt-bronze edged top adorned with a hunting trophy marquetry in precious woods: cherry, amaranth inlays, and stained boxwood on a sycamore background. The apron, enriched with a foliate garland in stained boxwood and sycamore on an amaranth ground, opens with three front drawers, one of which forms a writing surface lined with gold-tooled leather.

The table stands on openwork supports ending in scroll feet, connected by a stretcher. The gilt-bronze mounts, of remarkable finesse, complete this characterful piece, blending elegance and precision.

Stamped twice under the top with A.L. Gilbert’s mark, this table also bears several stamps from the Parisian Joiners-Cabinetmakers’ Guild (JME), a guarantee of authenticity and quality.

Origin and Dating Crafted around 1775, this table exemplifies the Transition style between Louis XV and Louis XVI (1750–1776). Its elegance and precision reflect the Parisian craftsmanship of the era, while showcasing the talent of André-Louis Gilbert, a master cabinetmaker whose works combine tradition and innovation.

Provenance From the collection of Countess Diane de Castellane.

Dimensions :

Height: 31 in. (78.5 cm)

Length: 35 ¾ in. (90.5 cm)

Depth: 17 ½ in. (44.5 cm)

Condition Presented in its original used condition, this table retains all its authenticity and original charm.

Biography:

André-Louis Gilbert (1746–1809) Master Cabinetmaker Between Tradition and Revolution

Born in Paris in 1746, André-Louis Gilbert emerged as one of the leading figures of 18th-century French cabinetmaking. Trained in the workshop of Noël Malle, he quickly distinguished himself through his talent, despite a youthful incident that briefly forced him into the city watch. Admitted as a master in 1774, he established his workshop on Rue Traversière, then moved in 1785 to the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, the heart of Parisian craftsmanship.

Specializing in Louis XV, Transition, and Louis XVI style furniture, Gilbert excelled in refined marquetry, depicting landscapes, ancient ruins, colonnades, or architectural motifs, often enhanced with mother-of-pearl inlays. His creations, such as commodes and writing desks, stood out for their elegance and originality, framed in amaranth wood and adorned with chiseled bronze mounts.

The French Revolution marked a turning point in his career. Joining the revolutionary ranks, he participated in the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, temporarily interrupting his cabinetmaking work. He later served in the gendarmerieand the police legion before gradually retiring from the craft.

Today, his works, sought after for their quality and rarity, illustrate the transition from the Rococo style to Neoclassical aesthetics. Often stamped with his name, his furniture can be found in private and public collections, perpetuating the legacy of a craftsman who masterfully blended traditional expertise with stylistic innovation.