Desk set - Bronze (gilt/silvered/patinated/cold painted)






Holds bachelor's degrees in Law and Art History with an Ecole du Louvre auctioneer diploma.
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This French desk set from 1850–1900 comprises a paper knife and matching tray in finely worked gilt bronze, with eclectic Neoclassical and historicist influences.
Description from the seller
A fascinating and elegant antique desk set (France, late 19th century), consisting of a large paper knife (coupe-papier) and its matching tray with integrated supports, entirely made of finely crafted gilt bronze.
The design stands out for its bold eclectic character, with references to the Neoclassical and Historicist styles. The tray features an elaborate raised beaded border and a pierced base with geometric motifs and curling scrollwork. Two striking openwork handles stand out at either end. The paper knife has an imposing cylindrical handle, richly chased with raised floral and foliate motifs and ending in a decorative finial; there is a small loss at the tip, as shown in the photos. The blade has a pierced scrollwork mount that joins elegantly to the handle.
A highly eye-catching collector’s piece, perfect for enhancing a period desk or as a refined decorative accent.
The set retains a beautiful original patina, with slight, normal signs of age that attest to its authenticity.
Seller's Story
A fascinating and elegant antique desk set (France, late 19th century), consisting of a large paper knife (coupe-papier) and its matching tray with integrated supports, entirely made of finely crafted gilt bronze.
The design stands out for its bold eclectic character, with references to the Neoclassical and Historicist styles. The tray features an elaborate raised beaded border and a pierced base with geometric motifs and curling scrollwork. Two striking openwork handles stand out at either end. The paper knife has an imposing cylindrical handle, richly chased with raised floral and foliate motifs and ending in a decorative finial; there is a small loss at the tip, as shown in the photos. The blade has a pierced scrollwork mount that joins elegantly to the handle.
A highly eye-catching collector’s piece, perfect for enhancing a period desk or as a refined decorative accent.
The set retains a beautiful original patina, with slight, normal signs of age that attest to its authenticity.
