A exceptionally rare Period French Empire (1804-1814) walnut bureau a cylindre. Exquisitely hand-crafted in France, most likely Parisian work, dating to the early 19th century, the large antique cylinder desk features a tambour roll top, opening to reveal an interior gallery fitted with small drawers and open shelf pigeonhole cubbies for writing instruments and documents. Having an extended writing surface, above rectangular case fitted with a frieze drawer over two large drawers with hand-cut dovetail joinery, flanked by classical ebonized double columns, mounted with patinated gilt bronze Egyptianesque masks (paying homage to Napoleon Bonaparte's recent 1798–1801 military campaign in Egypt), rising on tapered square legs. circa 1810 Dimensions: (approx) 44.25" High, 51.5" Wide, 24.25" Deep A superb museum quality example. Excellent original unrestored antique condition. Nicely aged patina. Retaining antique character throughout, including typical age appropriate wear. Delivered cleaned, waxed, with hand rubbed polished French patina, ready for immediate use and generational enjoyment.