Bidspirit auction | EMPIRE SECRETARY WITH CARYATIDS /

EMPIRE SECRETARY WITH CARYATIDS / SECRÉTAIRE À ABATTANT AUX EGYPTIEN - Vienna ? early 19th century A typical example of a cabinet desk with a fold-out writing surface, the interior divided by small drawers. On the sides of the fold-out desk and the drawer columns, it is adorned with pairs of pilasters featuring female figures in an Egyptian style. The body is made of oak and softwood, veneered with thick mahogany veneer. The capitals and bases of the pilasters are carved, decorated with black and gilded accents. The hardware is made of gilded bronze. Although this is a typically French furniture model, it is likely of Viennese origin, as evidenced by the originally veneered and polished top surface, which would typically be covered with a marble slab in a French secretary. Additionally, the capitals of the pilasters would likely be cast from bronze and gilded in the fire in a French piece. The interior`s design with an arched space and, not least, the use of softwoods and maple also points to a Central European origin. 147x101x51 cm. Condition B. Restored, subsequently damaged on the side with scratches in the veneer. Damage to the edge of the top cornice.