Secretary with interesting secret compartments

Dimensions: H x W x D: 158 x 113 x 44 cm

Description:
A very rare and extremely high-quality piece of writing furniture with particularly ingenious opening mechanisms.

When closed, the neatly laid grain pattern and the unusual diamond pattern of the lower doors and the writing flap are particularly striking. "Diamondising" means that the surfaces are not flat as usual, but taper to a point like a diamond cut and thus reflect the grazing light differently from different angles.
This effect was achieved by gluing approximately 2.5 cm thick mahogany panels onto the oak base surfaces like a veneer and then removing as much material as necessary until the "diamond cut" was achieved. Such lavish handling of the very precious wood, which was brought from Central America on sailing ships, was absolutely unusual and certainly cost the purchaser of the furniture at the time a high price. Only the finest wood was used here, with an exceptionally beautiful grain and in very wide planks.

By turning the original key with its square shaft, we now open the heavy six-bar lock so that the secretaire flap covered with the original writing leather can be opened. Once open, the head drawer, which is held under tension by springs, can be opened using a hidden push button.

The writing compartment of the secretary is spectacular! Four vases standing on diamond plinths, an open compartment with a round arch and mother-of-pearl inlays in the parquet floor as well as a row of fire-gilded rosettes dominate the picture.
The handleless doors open automatically by sliding two hidden release mechanisms. Behind them are four further drawers, each emphasised by light-coloured maple frames.
Double shelves, concealed push-buttons and a sliding crosspiece open four further secret drawers. Please take a look at the attached video!
The choice of materials for the interior should also not go unmentioned. All drawers are not only veneered on the front, but are made entirely of solid mahogany. This kind of quality is absolutely outstanding.

Below the writing flap are two doors that interlock with tongue and groove. A robust bar lock closes both doors.

The upper end of the cabinet is formed by a slightly recessed top made of light-coloured stone that follows the shape of the cabinet.

Condition:
Authentic, refurbished condition with a shellac hand polish. All mechanisms work perfectly.

Price: 12500,-€