19th-Century French Secrétaire by Durand

Superior craftsmanship and intricate marquetry characterize this rare secrétaire by Gervais-Maximilien-Eugène Durand, one of the most popular French ébénistes of the 19th century. This is an exceptional example of his work, bringing together beautiful materials and a practical, yet elegant design. The compact Louis XV-inspired form features two visible shelves, as well as two others cleverly hidden by a false front at the base. Beautifully embellished with Durand’s distinctive Rococo-style ormolu mounts, the secrétaire rests on four curved feet enveloped by ornamented bronze. 

Celebrated as one of the greatest ébénistes of luxury furniture at the turn of the century, Durand was a master at creating original designs inspired by the Louis XV and Rococo styles. He established the firm of Maison Durand in 1870, and he soon thereafter received international recognition when the Maison triumphed at the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle. Today, high-quality, signed examples such as this are becoming increasingly scarce finds.

Stamped “G. Durand”

Circa 1880

46 1/8″ high x 24″ wide x 11″ deep