Desk (bonheur du jour) 1775 - 1785

Curator: Alright, next up we have an exquisite "bonheur du jour," or "lady's writing desk," crafted between 1775 and 1785. It's attributed to Roger Vandercruse, also known as Lacroix, and it showcases some magnificent Rococo artistry. Editor: Well, isn't that precious? It looks like something Marie Antoinette might have used to pen clandestine letters, maybe while nibbling on a petit four. I bet it holds secrets galore, tucked away in those tiny drawers. Curator: Its elegance speaks to the period's emphasis on ornamentation. Look at the interplay between the wood, metal, and meticulously detailed carvings. The desk becomes more than just a functional object; it's a statement of luxury and refinement. We can observe decorative relief and open shelving, both integrated into the design. Editor: The wood grain, those soft browns and creams—they remind me of antique paper. The silver accents add just the right touch of sparkle. Can you imagine the feeling of sitting here to write—the weight of the paper, the scratch of the pen? Though the actual writing itself, that might be tricky while wearing a ridiculously large dress. Curator: Consider the structure. The slender legs support a delicate body. The symmetry gives it a visual balance that speaks to the enlightenment era’s quest for order, even amidst the exuberance of Rococo ornamentation. Editor: The shape almost has a playful, anthropomorphic feel, doesn't it? A whimsical personality captured in wood and metal. There is something very fairytale-esque about the size and decorative nature. Curator: Precisely! Vandercruse uses form and decoration not merely for aesthetic value but to subtly communicate status and the sensibilities of his clientele. Editor: It really invites you to dream a bit, to imagine the world surrounding its creation. Someone designed it to spark conversation. This small desk makes one consider if art and function can truly coexist and enhance one another. Curator: Yes, reflecting on the function it served alongside its inherent beauty really provides food for thought.