I Must Have Marie Antoinette's Desk 

My preference is always to purchase furniture that’s gently used but solidly made, rather than Ikea. That’s why I’m really hoping I can get a good deal on Marie Antoinette’s two gilded stools and Louis XIV ormolu-mounted writing table, up for auction in Paris. That’s basically the same as Craigslist, right?

Tatler reported that today, Christie’s Paris is auctioning off a plethora of items from collector Juan de Beitsegui. From a family of collectors—when you’re extremely wealthy, you’re a collector, not a pack rat—he “chose to focus on collecting notable pieces of furniture owned by royalty.” Hence the items include the pieces from the ill-fated French queen, as well as “a pair of imperial Sèvres lapis lazuli porcelain vases bought by Emperor Alexander III of Russia, and a Louis XVI lacquered desk by Martin Carlin owned by Comte de Flahaut.” Unfortunately I only have need for one desk, but of course I’ll pass the listing along to one of my fellow used furniture shopper friends.

Via Tatler:

‘We are thrilled to offer this fascinating collection which illustrates an impeccable taste and a very discerning eye,’ said Christie’s head of decorative arts, Simon de Monicault. ‘This legendary family has a real significance in the art of collecting and I am sure that all collectors will be pleased to discover these treasures selected throughout decades with the utmost care. It has been a real joy to work with these important pieces, associating perfect provenance and remarkable craftsmanship.’

Great, so it’s from a nonsmoking home with no pets? Could I pick it up Friday around 2 p.m.? Thanks!