This elegant writing desk, known quirkily as a “bureau à dos d’âne” (donkey’s back desk), is beautifully veneered in rosewood, including reverse diamonds and butterfly-wings, which are typical of the Louis XVI period. The desk is opened by a central lock in the sloping flap, while a frieze drawer provides useful storage underneath. The desk rests on sheath feet, which have had some historical repairs made to them.

Circa 1775