Desk set - Brass, Brass





Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 128965 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
A 19th‑century brass desk document organizer from France, 1850–1900, plated brass with a central Napoléon III ornament, three stepped compartments, 22 × 14 × 11 cm, in good condition.
Description from the seller
A 19th-century silver-plated brass document filing accessory, with a central Napoléon III–style ornament, characteristic for its taste for rich ornamentation, heraldic motifs, and the sober elegance typical of the Second French Empire. The piece shows a balanced design between functionality and decorative presence, typical of bourgeois desks of the era.
Design and materials
• Made of silver-plated brass, with a uniform patina that shows its age without losing shine.
• Structure formed by three stepped compartments, designed to organize letters, documents, or correspondence.
• Upper edges with a wavy profile, an ornamental detail frequently found in 19th-century desk accessories.
• Rectangular base slightly raised on small feet, which provides stability and a more refined appearance.
Central Napoléon III–style ornament
• Central relief motif with crown, leaves, and a circular emblem, typical of the decorative language of the Second Empire.
• Symmetrical composition with a marked neoclassical influence, with a theatrical touch characteristic of the style.
• The ornament acts as a focal point, standing out against the silver background.
Condition
• Overall very good condition, with no deformations or structural damage.
• The silvering maintains a homogeneous tone, with natural wear typical of age.
• The reliefs of the central ornament appear crisp and well defined.
Historical and decorative value
• Represents a typical desk accessory of European bourgeoisie in the 19th century, where correspondence played a central role.
• Its Napoleon III style and good conservation make it an attractive piece for both collectors and vintage or classic décor.
Tracked shipping and careful packaging.
Seller's Story
Translated by Google TranslateA 19th-century silver-plated brass document filing accessory, with a central Napoléon III–style ornament, characteristic for its taste for rich ornamentation, heraldic motifs, and the sober elegance typical of the Second French Empire. The piece shows a balanced design between functionality and decorative presence, typical of bourgeois desks of the era.
Design and materials
• Made of silver-plated brass, with a uniform patina that shows its age without losing shine.
• Structure formed by three stepped compartments, designed to organize letters, documents, or correspondence.
• Upper edges with a wavy profile, an ornamental detail frequently found in 19th-century desk accessories.
• Rectangular base slightly raised on small feet, which provides stability and a more refined appearance.
Central Napoléon III–style ornament
• Central relief motif with crown, leaves, and a circular emblem, typical of the decorative language of the Second Empire.
• Symmetrical composition with a marked neoclassical influence, with a theatrical touch characteristic of the style.
• The ornament acts as a focal point, standing out against the silver background.
Condition
• Overall very good condition, with no deformations or structural damage.
• The silvering maintains a homogeneous tone, with natural wear typical of age.
• The reliefs of the central ornament appear crisp and well defined.
Historical and decorative value
• Represents a typical desk accessory of European bourgeoisie in the 19th century, where correspondence played a central role.
• Its Napoleon III style and good conservation make it an attractive piece for both collectors and vintage or classic décor.
Tracked shipping and careful packaging.

