This splendid walnut drop front Dutch marquetry desk / secretary / secretaire / bureau dates around the 1780′s and is completely covered with a beautiful floral and urn marquetry. The inlay work is very intricate, inside and out. The slant front top opens to reveal an exquisite fitted interior filled with drawers and compartments. Also inside, there is a storage well and a inset area for a writing surface. The writing surface was left unfinished so the new buyer can decide on leather or felt, as well as the color.
The base has two small drawers on each side, that are used to support the writing slope when open. Below that are serpentine shaped block front drawers, two small and two large, resting on a shaped base with dental detail inlay. To complete this piece, the cabinetmaker carved two large lion paw feet to anchor the look of this desk.
PERIOD: Late 18th Century
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Netherlands
MATERIALS: Walnut and wood marquetry.
HEIGHT: 42.75 in. (109 cm)
WIDTH: 45 in. (114 cm)
DEPTH: 23.5 in. (60 cm)
CONDITION: Extremely nice antique condition with minor wear consistent with its age and use. The desk has had an earlier restoration and shows signs of veneer repair and replacement in various areas. Desk pad needs replacement and hinges are not original. See photos for more details.
