Hand made about 1820, a genuine Empire period secretary desk has a bookcase top with Gothic arched glass doors. Resplendent acanthus carved columns and claw and ball feet suggest a New England origin. Drawers have hand cut dovetails, square nails show on the hand planed back.
Mahogany with matched flame grain, the old finish is very well preserved with a few mars for character. Waxed and polished, it needs only an occasional wipe with a soft dry cloth to maintain the warm antique patina. There are small mars at the edges plus shrinkage separations from age, see photos.
Historic wavy glass panes have a few bubbles. Bookshelves are adjustable on wooden supports, underneath are three small drawers with rosewood fronts. Locks and keys work. The front flips open onto pull out supports. American made furniture, the bookcase is a separate piece for moving.
On the sides are tall compartments for maps and nautical charts, this desk was said to have belonged to a ship captain.
Dimensions are 49" wide, 25" deep, 7' 3" tall and the writing surface slopes up from 30" at the front to 33" high at the rear.
Item # V-S2924
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