Antique Empire secretary

Dimensions: H x W x D: 143 x 98 x 49 cm

Description:
Very fine French writing desk with delicate dimensions. The above dimensions are measured at the marble top, the width of the body is 91 cm.

When closed, we see an interestingly grained walnut veneer running through all the components. Massive full columns with gilded and finely chiselled bases and capitals flank the beautiful grain pattern. The keyhole fittings with their flower-filled horns are also finely crafted.
The locks, which require a key with a triangular shaft at the top and one with a round shaft and hollow round core at the bottom, are extremely rare. Both keys are original.

The two doors at the bottom close in tongue and groove, which can be clearly seen in one of the photos. There is an open compartment and a drawer behind the doors.

If we open the writing flap, we see an exciting interior behind the work surface covered with punched leather.
The interior is dominated by the mirrored colonnade on the back. A total of eight columns in two rows support the round arches resting on them.
There is a wide, handleless drawer at the top and eight more drawers at the bottom, the largest of which is closed with a secret latch.

Above the writing compartment, we see another wide drawer without handles and the loose Belgian granite top.
This slab is certainly also original. One of the photos clearly shows the hand-hewn back and the slightly different material thicknesses in the course of the top.

Condition:
Refurbished and very authentic condition. The shellac polish gives the wood an incredible "depth". Light-dark contrasts in the grain are well emphasised.