Signed Maison Forest Marquetry Inlaid Bronze Mounted Secretary Desk with Cubbies

The furniture crafted by esteemed French manufacturer Maison Forest during the late 19th century exceeds every metric of quality. Established in 1883 at 14 rue Pierre Picard in Paris, Maison Forest created exquisite pieces in the Louis XVI, Empire and Napoleon III styles.

Maison Forest was known for its range of cabinets, armchairs and writing desks that were made with meticulous attention to detail and an incorporation of only the finest materials. Its breccia marble-topped commodes, ebony cabinets with stone overlays and mahogany writing desks — which were embellished with leather surfaces and cast gilt-bronze mounts at the ends of their tapered legs — are prized by collectors and added notes of grace to any interior of the era. 

Some of the furniture of Maison Forest was inspired by the work of Parisian designers such as Guillaume Benneman, who created furnishings for interiors at royal residences in the manner of Jean-François Oeben and Jean-Henri Riesener, a favorite of Marie Antoinette and whose work was exemplary of the neoclassical style. 

Maison Forest moved its facilities at least once to 31 rue Cambaceres and later exhibited its offerings at the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 Chicago. 

On 1stDibs, find antique Maison Forest case pieces, seating, tables and more.