19th c. French Marble Topped Inlaid Escritoire

French Louis XV Style Escritoire with Brèche d’Alep Marble Top, 19th Century A fine-quality French escritoire in the Louis XV style, dating to the late 19th century, circa 1880. This elegant piece features a shaped and bevelled Brèche d’Alep marble top—characterised by its warm tones and richly variegated, brecciated pattern—retaining its original finish with a small, well-executed repair to the rear edge. The cabinet is veneered in kingwood and tulipwood, both prized for their fine grain and rich colour contrast. The fall front bears a floral marquetry bouquet tied with a ribbon, inlaid with various exotic woods including boxwood, ebony, and fruitwoods, forming a highly decorative and symmetrical motif. The fall front opens to reveal a tooled leather writing surface, an open shelf, and four small internal drawers, also veneered. Above the fall front is a single frieze drawer with a running inlaid guilloche pattern, while below are three further drawers, all with matching brass escutcheons and handles. Gilt-bronze ormolu mounts adorn the corners, apron, and cabriole legs, enhancing its Louis XV stylistic influence. The carcass is constructed in mahogany, with a solid oak back, attesting to the quality of its construction. Condition: Offered in good polished condition. The fall front is slightly distorted but closes securely and presents a level writing surface. Supplied with two working keys. Dimensions: Height: 149.5 cm Width: 70.5 cm Depth: 40 cm An elegant and finely constructed piece, desirable for both function and decorative appeal.