{"product_id":"19th-century-walnut-billet-doux-fall-front-desk-411-4","title":"19th Century Walnut Billet Doux Fall-Front Desk w\/ Monogram - 41¼\"","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThis petite French standing secrétaire, known as a \u003ci\u003ebillet doux\u003c\/i\u003e, is crafted in warmly toned walnut. The fall-front cabinet is raised on shaped supports joined by a turned stretcher and finished with a scalloped apron. The paneled façade bears an engraved monogram and linear banding picked out in later gilt paint, subtly echoing the brass pull. Inside, two scalloped letter slots and a small shelf sit above a writing flap clad in leather with a gently softened surface. The lock is in working order. Condition is good overall, with a timeworn patina, minor surface marks, and a visible old repair to one foot, while remaining stable.\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\nConceived for private correspondence, these compact billet doux desks were favored in salons and boudoirs as discreet stations for notes and visiting cards, offering a lighter, more mobile alternative to larger writing furniture. The monogram suggests a cherished personal commission, adding to its intimate character.\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\nNicely proportioned and unobtrusive, it makes a charming letter station in an entry or library, or a poetic bedside perch for a lamp and notebook. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition and patina consistent with age.\u003cbr\u003eApprox. overall 41¼\" high x 19\" wide x 19¼\" deep  \u003cbr\u003eApprox. overall 105cm high x 48cm wide x 49cm deep \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chez Pluie","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53041686937938,"sku":"24243","price":2695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1166\/6698\/files\/DSC09560_3f4a4d1b-741b-4c60-a79c-8cc1eaaeb1ca.jpg?v=1774614478","url":"https:\/\/www.chezpluie.com\/products\/19th-century-walnut-billet-doux-fall-front-desk-411-4","provider":"Chez Pluie","version":"1.0","type":"link"}