Carved Oak 1895 Secretary Desk, Lion, Figures, Secret Compartment
Hand carved of solid oak in France about 1895, a spectacular secretary desk has three dimensional Renaissance sculptures of figures, a lion head, griffins, fruit and representations of music and the arts on lower door panels.
The original finish is extremely well preserved with warm antique patina. Waxed and buffed, it needs only an occasional wipe with a soft dry cloth to maintain its glowing luster. A key in the drop front unlocks the upper drawer as well.
Inside is a natural saddle leather writing surface plus a maple interior with tiny drawers and cubicles for papers plus a secret panel above. The original release mechanism is lost, today a finger hole allows the magnet-held panel to pop out. Inside are two drawers for valuables. All drawers have hand cut dovetail joints and chamfered bottoms on this historic European furniture.
Measurements are 34" wide, 18" deep, 63 1/2" tall and the desk top is 30" high.
Item # G-S4133
