Napoleon III Writing Desk, France, 19th Century

An elegant French writing set from the Napoleon III period, dating from the late 19th century, around 1880, featuring remarkable geometric marquetry and brass ornamentation.
This box features a folding top and compartments designed to hold a set of writing instruments. It includes two vertical compartments for letters, a compartment for quills, space for two inkwells, a quill wiper, and a quill dryer, as well as, beneath the tray, two small drawers and a compartment for paper.

Napoleon III style, France, late 19th century.
Ebony wood inlaid with mother-of-pearl and brass, rosewood interior, bone handles, engraved hinges.
Dimensions: length: 38.5 cm, width: 30.5 cm, height: 21 cm.
Condition: inlays in very good condition; one metal fitting missing from the edge; slight loss of veneer on the interior; the desk’s upholstery may need to be replaced.