Drop-leaf Secretaire Writing Desk - detail

Drop-leaf Secretaire Writing Desk - side

Drop-leaf Secretaire Writing Desk

Features

Age: 19th Century / 1801 - 1900

Year: Ultimo quarto '800

Origin: Italy

Main essence: Mahogany

Description

A mahogany drop-leaf secretaire writing desk. When the drawer is opened, the roll up door slides and the drop-leaf door opens. A shelf with three drawers. Brass threads. Detached parts. Manufactured in Italy, last quarter of the 19th century.

Product Condition:
The item shows signs of wear due to age. Any damage or loss is displayed as completely as possible in the pictures. It may require restoration and buffing.

Dimensions (cm):
Height: 105
Width: 72
Depth: 49

Additional Information

Age: 19th Century / 1801 - 1900

19th Century / 1801 - 1900

Main essence: Mahogany

It is one of the most precious and sought-after woods in cabinet making. It was discovered in Central America around 1600 and began to be imported to England in the 1700s. Much appreciated for its hardness and indestructibility, it became widespread following the blocking of walnut exports from France in 1720 and the consequent elimination of English import duties on mahogany from the colonies in America and India. The most valuable version comes from Cuba, but it became very expensive. At the end of the 18th century it began to be used also in France in Louis XVI, Directory and Empire furniture, its diffusion declined starting from when Napoleon, in 1810, forbade its import. It was generally used in the manufacture of elegant furniture, due to its characteristics and beautiful grain.