This exceptional antique Louis XV–style kidney-shaped desk by Paul Sormani (1817-1877) represents the pinnacle of 19th-century French cabinetmaking, combining masterful craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and refined Rococo elegance. Designed in the grand Louis XV tradition, the desk is distinguished by its flowing curves, elegant proportions, and meticulous attention to detail—hallmarks of Sormani’s celebrated Parisian workshop.
The desk is topped with a rich leather writing surface, beautifully framed by finely executed parquetry inlay that continues throughout the entire piece. The leather shows visible signs of age-related distressing and areas of discoloration, consistent with its antique character and long history of use. This patina adds authenticity and depth, contributing to the desk’s historical presence while remaining entirely suitable for decorative or functional use.
The parquetry inlay is executed with remarkable precision, displaying harmonious grain patterns and tonal variation that reflect the highest level of French ébénisterie. The kidney-shaped form enhances both comfort and visual softness, a design favored in refined aristocratic and scholarly interiors.
Lavishly adorned with exceptional hand-chased gilt bronze ormolu mounts, the desk is enriched with ornamentation of the finest quality. The mounts are crisply detailed, finely modeled, and expertly applied, accentuating the curves of the case and elevating the overall composition. This level of bronze work is characteristic of furniture produced for elite clientele and firmly aligns with the standards associated with Paul Sormani.
Functionality is seamlessly integrated through six drawers, offering ample storage for documents, writing implements, and personal effects. Importantly, the desk is signed “Paul Sormani” on the lock of the central drawer, a highly desirable feature that confirms authorship and significantly enhances both collector and historical value. It also still has its original key something that is very rare and hard to come by.
This Louis XV style leather top writing desk is ideally suited for a study, library, or executive interior, functioning equally as a practical workspace and as a statement piece of French decorative art. The piece is in good antique condition with the exception of some light surface scratches, Minor finish loss and normal age related wear. As to be expected with items of age and use.

Dimensions: Height: 29 3/4 in Width: 45 1/2 in Depth: 24 1/2 in

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