Constructed throughout in solid oak or Ein Massiv and retaining its original simulated rosewood finish, this is an unusually robust and architecturally composed secrétaire of transitional Biedermeier and Louis-Philippe character.
The restrained exterior is centred by a shaped moulded fall front beneath a deep frieze drawer, the lower section fitted with three generous graduated drawers, all retaining their original ivory escutcheons.
The fall front opens to reveal an exceptionally well-appointed interior, arranged with banks of finely proportioned small drawers flanking an open central compartment divided by turned columns, together with concealed storage and a broad writing surface. The interior retains the disciplined symmetry and practical sophistication characteristic of quality Continental cabinetmaking of the period.
Unlike the vast majority of comparable secretaires, which rely upon decorative veneers over secondary timber, this example is of solid oak, the timber finished in an original faux rosewood graining to emulate the rich appearance of imported exotic hardwoods while celebrating the integrity and durability of native oak. Such construction is encountered far less frequently than conventional veneered examples and reflects a distinctive regional cabinetmaking tradition.
Origin: North German or Danish
Date: 1845
Style: Biedermeier
Dimensions: 156cm tall, 100cm wide and 56cm deep.
Constructed throughout in solid oak or Ein Massiv and retaining its original simulated rosewood finish, this is an unusually robust and architecturally composed secrétaire of transitional Biedermeier and Louis-Philippe character.
The restrained exterior is centred by a shaped moulded fall front beneath a deep frieze drawer, the lower section fitted with three generous graduated drawers, all retaining their original ivory escutcheons.
The fall front opens to reveal an exceptionally well-appointed interior, arranged with banks of finely proportioned small drawers flanking an open central compartment divided by turned columns, together with concealed storage and a broad writing surface. The interior retains the disciplined symmetry and practical sophistication characteristic of quality Continental cabinetmaking of the period.
Unlike the vast majority of comparable secretaires, which rely upon decorative veneers over secondary timber, this example is of solid oak, the timber finished in an original faux rosewood graining to emulate the rich appearance of imported exotic hardwoods while celebrating the integrity and durability of native oak. Such construction is encountered far less frequently than conventional veneered examples and reflects a distinctive regional cabinetmaking tradition.
Origin: North German or Danish
Date: 1845
Style: Biedermeier
Dimensions: 156cm tall, 100cm wide and 56cm deep.