Antique Biedermeier Walnut Secretary, 1835

Details

Description

Antique biedermeier secretary desk

rhineland
walnut, etc.
biedermeier, c. 1835

dimensions: h x w x d: 163 x 108 x … Read more Antique biedermeier secretary desk

rhineland
walnut, etc.
biedermeier, c. 1835

dimensions: h x w x d: 163 x 108 x 50 cm

:
the tall, rectangular cabinet body rests on rounded turned legs at the front and block legs at the rear; it features two doors in the lower section, a writing flap above them, and a subtly curved cornice with an integrated drawer. The top is finished with a slightly projecting moulding and the cover panel above it.
the carefully mirror-image-arranged grain pattern of the walnut veneer is contrasted by the light-coloured keyways.

when we open the writing flap, we see an interesting interior with drawer fronts veneered in maple burl. Delicate marquetry in the form of a winged putto, mythical creatures and acanthus scrolls can be found on the top drawer and, somewhat more discreetly, on the base of the central compartment behind the colonnade.
the central compartment is mirrored on three sides. Thanks to the skilful angled positioning of the side mirrors, the turned columns are multiplied in the reflection, creating the illusion of a colonnade extending far into the depth. In this way, the comparatively small compartment achieves a remarkable sense of space.
the rear mirrors are fitted with vertical grooves, so that the viewer’s gaze is diverted from the fact that the mirror is in two parts. Sliding the two halves of the mirror sideways opens up access to a secret compartment behind them.

on the back of the piece is the handwritten inscription ‘a.8. Düsseldorf’. The exact meaning of this marking can no longer be ascertained today; it may be related to an earlier inventory or classification within a larger collection of furniture.

condition:
restored and suitable for everyday use, with a hand-applied shellac polish. See less