Baroque Tabernacle Secretary with Rich Marquetry

Dimensions: H x W x D: 190 x 126 x 79 cm

Description:
Very rare and in best quality manufactured writing cabinet, so called tabernacle-secretary.

The fine and detailed marquetry is eye-catching and highly impressive. If we compare the inlay work of the superimposed drawers with each other, we see that each form of design is unique - winding, geometric ribbonwork is complemented by floral elements such as blossoms and acanthus.
The central door, which is at eye level, shows a cartouche-like framed and crowned coat of arms under a canopy held by a lion and dragon. Fire shading and fine engravings in the maple wood give the depiction a three-dimensional character.

The body is predominantly veneered in walnut and birch burl. Thread inlays of bog oak and maple divide the surfaces rectangularly and provide contrasts. The four-part division on the sides of the base is unusual here; also worth mentioning is the corresponding fielding on the curved side panels that connect the two cornices.

The early date of origin, around 1735, is indicated on the one hand by the four-row commode-like base, and on the other hand by the form of the marquetry, which still fully corresponds to the taste of the Régence period. The original drop-shaped fittings as well as the ebonised mouldings and ball feet also correspond to the period.

The piece of furniture consists of a four-part construction:

-The substructure is strongly concave in the middle and thus provides for increased foot space when writing. The 16 drawers in total are made without locks and are closed by central locking mechanisms.

-The writing section above has a slanted flap and two drawers on top of each other to the left and right. The flap is lockable. There are five further drawers inside. In addition, we find the solid central locks for the 12 drawers of the base as well as the split pin locks for the flanking drawers.

-The top consists of the tabernacle door, a drawer underneath and eight further centrally locked drawers outside.

-The upper end is formed by an attached cornice component with a head drawer.

Condition:
Restored condition with wonderful patina and a naturally matured wood colour. All drawers run cleanly and smoothly. The locks and locking mechanisms work perfectly.

Price: This piece of furniture has already been sold. The replacement price for objects comparable in quality and age is around 30000,-€ to 40000,-€.