Desk (bonheur du jour) 1765 - 1785

This “bonheur du jour” (literally “happiness of the day”), a type of writing desk popular in the 18th century, was crafted by renowned English furniture maker Thomas Chippendale between 1765 and 1785. The piece is characterized by its elegant S-shaped legs and intricate marquetry work, including a central oval panel on the desk's surface. The design draws inspiration from French Rococo aesthetics, showcasing the influence of continental style on Chippendale's work. The desk, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a testament to Chippendale's mastery of form and function.