<p>
	The &nbsp;dressing table, originally known as a &quot;poudreuse&quot;, appeared under the<a href="http://www.antiques-in-france.com/antiquites/-/french-regency"> Regency period</a> when furniture began to be made specificaly &nbsp;for ladies. &nbsp;It was destined for ablutions and the storing of the required materials. The Louis XV coiffeuse is usually a small piece of furniture with &nbsp; two or three drawerrs and a three part top. &nbsp;The two side sections of the top slide open to reveal fitted compartments, whereas the central section lifts to reveal a mirror. &nbsp;The dressing table often also has &nbsp;leather covered pull-out leaves which serve as writing slopes. &nbsp;Late 19th C and 20th C dressing tables tend to be in the shape of a knee-hole desk surmounted by a &nbsp;mirror. &nbsp;They can also be a matching part of a bedroom suite.</p>