A magnificent french boulle style writing desk, richly decorated with ormolu mounts and vibrant red and black panels in the manner of napoleon iii furniture bought from a dealer on marche biron at the paris antiques markets the rectangular top is inset with a large burgundy red leather writing surface, framed by decorative panels with intricate gilt scrolling motifs set against a contrasting black ground the corners are mounted with ornate ormolu mounts, adding a luxurious classical accent the front contains three drawers, each decorated with bold red and gilt boulle style panels and fitted with elaborate gilt bronze handles and escutcheons at the centre sits an impressive ormolu mask mount, flanked by decorative scrollwork the desk stands on elegant cabriole legs, each mounted with striking gilt bronze female figure mounts and decorative sabots, typical of the opulent decorative style popular during the napoleon iii period in france (mid to late 19th century) a highly decorative and impressive piece, this french boulle style desk would make a superb centrepiece for a study, library, or office, combining dramatic craftsmanship with classical french elegance offered in great shape dimensions are in inches (cm): width x depth x height 50" (127 cm) x 29" (74 cm) x 31" (79 cm)