The Antique Bonheur Du Jour is a form of antique writing table from the 19th Century Victorian period constructed using Satinwood or Mahogany and often inlaid. This style of antique desk originates from France where the name means “daytime delight”, by the late 18th Century they were made in London and simply called ‘a lady’s writing desk’. The antique bonheur du jour is always very fine looking and finished on all sides so does not have to be standing against the wall and can be appreciated from all sides. They often have a small central cabinet with fitted drawers, open shelves for paperwork or letters and stand on slender tapering legs with spade feet. The best examples were by the renowned cabinet makers, such as Gillows as they would only use the the finest timbers and add unique features, like a tambour cupboard door and sliding writing insert with original tooled leather. All the edges would be highlighted with beautiful cross banding in satinwood and have ebony string inlay. The Brass decoration would include a pieced gallery and decorative rococo styling in some of the handle designs. Have a look below at some of our lovely examples available for sale.
Bonheur du jour for sale
Below are a few examples of Bonheur Du Jour that we have sold, if any particular style looks of interest, let us know and we can try to find you something similar.
Antique Victorian Mahogany Bonheur Du Jour dating from around 1895, made from mahogany and is of superb quality. This particular one has a pierced brass gallery above two pigeon holes and two central cupboard doors. Concealed behind the doors are three beautiful satinwood mahogany lined drawers. The antique writing desk stands on four tapering legs finished with small brass rounded feet and has a lower shaped tier.
Regency Antique Writing Table / Bonheur Du Jour dating from circa, 1830 and has a decorative brass gallery above an open section to display books. This is flanked by eight small mahogany lined drawers with brass handles and boxwood string inlay. This beautiful desk still has the original leather writing insert sitting above a long drawer with delightful decorative brass handles and finished with box wood string inlay. It stands on fine turned legs.
Related Reviews
- Ellen,
Dear James! The table has arrived safely. We are over the moon! What a delightful Piece of furniture. Kind regards Ellen
- Isabel – i’d definitely recommend,
Decorated my house with some beautiful pieces from here including a writing desk, bedside cupboards, chest of drawers etc; The workers are so friendly and i'd definitely recommend to visit as you can see just how much effort they put into restoring their antique pieces and i'm over the moon with the turnout.
- Patrick,
Hi, James, the table arrived safe and sound, and was extremely well-packed by Simon Hall, I give them full marks for a very thorough effort. Thank you again for all your efforts and information and assistance, it is greatly appreciated.Best, Patrick