Here are more photos showing hand painted and fully restored Chinoiserie desk. Restoring it, was a very time-consuming endeavor. But in the final hour, well-worth-it! So surprising how quickly it sold on my Chairish shop -
less than three hours! The sale happened in July.
Description: Inlaid drop down panel features charming painted vignettes of exotic birds, vase of flowers, weeping willow, fence/bridge, and pagoda. These panel scenes originally made (possibly 1920s era) with green background were painted in gold then given delicate black lines. Fast forward to this year, the wood surface was painted in several layers of blue/green/and black using custom made chalk paint recipe. To add further interest, I hand-painted intricate motifs in black and golden brown throughout to coincide with the raised panels. Here and there, the painted surfaces were distressed lending worn vintage appeal.
The drop front lid opens easily (original key) to reveal shelved storage cubbies painted in tints of blue-green chalk paint. Surrounding the painted interior drop top is a border motif in subtle black and golden brown colors. Interior complimentary to exterior colors. In addition, the intricately carved drawer (dovetailed corners/wooden hand painted knobs), contains a handmade (removable) drawer liner created by me.
In sum, adding the unique hand-painted motifs helped to make this piece even more special. To me, it recalls oriental/European folk art from centuries past.
Note: During restoration there was a rocking issue wherein desk was structurally unsound. However, all thanks to my husband Don’s carpentry skills, this was resolved by incorporating a complimentary carved centerpiece and four bars attached to the back undercarriage.
The overall surface of this desk was professionally sprayed with (dead flat) water based polyurethane clear varnish. The results truly ensure an attractive velvety patina including lasting durability.
So that's how this unique secretary desk came to be. Although both myself and Don are missing it, we hope the purchaser is enjoying.
More vintage furniture painted in the Chinoiserie styles including other eastern influences coming in the near future.
See you next time!
Cheers,
June
