This French masterpiece, "Bureau Mazarin" - named after the diplomat and politician Cardinal Mazarin (1602 - 1661) was one of the most fashionable and exquisite pieces of furniture of Louis XIV.
Originally designed as a desk, it was used as a showpiece to show the reputation and the wealth of the owner. The Bureau Mazarin is made using the Boulle technique with pewter inlays in amaranth wood.
A "Cabinet en armoire", that is exhibited in the Musée des Arts Decoratifs in Paris (Inv 38042, aquired in 1958) was made by the same cabinet maker.