Small antique Empire secretary

Dimensions: H x W x D: 136 x 69 x 42 cm

Description:
Extraordinarily small French Empire secretary.
When closed, it reveals the full beauty of the fantastically grained mahogany wood. Not only the smooth surfaces, but also the columns are very carefully veneered and thus contribute to the symmetrical harmony of the piece of furniture.

The dark wood forms the perfect background for the finely cast bronzes. The fittings on the bases and capitals are constructed in two parts, with the finely chiselled openwork in the shape of palmettes fitting perfectly onto the rings, which are also fire-gilt. The central design element, however, is undoubtedly the fittings with arrows, bows, quivers and torches mounted on the secretary flap and the drawer above - all attributes of Cupid and thus a subtle homage to love.

If we open the two lower doors, we see three drawers with small pull rings behind them. The original bar lock, which locks the door upwards and downwards, is impressive. The doors close into each other with tongue and groove, which means that no separate lock is required for the left-hand door. This can be clearly seen in one of the attached photos.

If we open the writing flap, we see an attractive and tidy interior. The neatly laid grain pattern on the lower drawers is also noteworthy here. The pull knobs are crafted with the same finesse as the bronze work mentioned above. The central, open compartment is mirrored on the back. Small columns support the round arch and lend the writing compartment an architectural character.
The two secret drawers at the bottom left and right are held under tension by iron springs and spring open automatically when the hidden latch is released.
The writing surface is newly covered with an old leather that originally came from the seating of the Hamburger Michel from 1912. After this seating was restored a few years ago, some of these beautifully embossed leather surfaces remained. The beautiful old leather with its fantastic patina has now found a new use here.

The upper end of the piece of furniture is formed by a loose marble top. With its white fossil inclusions and light-coloured veining, the dark stone has a lively yet elegant appearance.

Condition:
Refurbished condition with a shellac hand polish. Very desirable and authentic patina.

Price: 4650,-€