Secrétaire à abattant - Mahogany

Antique Susse Frères Paris miniature travelling secretary Napoleon III period

A charming miniature travelling secretary (nécessaire à écrire) from the renowned Paris house Susse Frères, dating from the Napoleon III period (19th century). Compact and finely crafted, this casket measures 29.5 x 23.5 x 8.5 cm. The stained (ebonized) wooden case features brass inlay details and a brass monogram cartouche on the lid, with an interior in red mahogany, brass hinges, and brass decorative moldings. It includes two original square glass inkwell bottles with metal stoppers, and a hidden, lid-up panel conceals the original blue wax seal (relief lettering), a beautifully preserved detail that reflects the object's history. The casket bears the maker's mark of Susse Frères, Paris.

Regarding condition (see detailed photos): there is a small chip/loss on the bottom bombé edge molding, and the blue velvet on the lid (writing surface) shows a slight bulge from age. The cork of one of the inkwell bottles is missing/decayed (the other remains original), and there is a small, non-removable white stain on the exterior rear. The wax seal inlay is broken into two pieces but remains completely present beneath the hidden panel.

Appraisal: This piece has been officially appraised at €300-400 by an independent expert. A fine find for collectors of antique writing equipment, travel accessories, or decorative items with provenance from a well-known maker.