A rare and elegant small drop-front desk in ebonized wood, embellished with a refined decoration of tiny brass stars. The contoured front and sides are accented with slender brass trim. It features four drawers and a drop-front panel—lined on the inside with blue fabric—which conceals an open compartment and four small drawers. Distinguished by its compact proportions and rich decorative detail, this piece was custom-made for a lady’s chamber. France, Napoleon III period, circa 1850.