Baltic Biedermeier Style Lyre Mahogany Fall Front Secretary Cabinet

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A magnificent Baltic Biedermeier style fall front secretary cabinet, styled after a presentation example by 18th/19th century Viennese master cabinetmaker … Read more A magnificent Baltic Biedermeier style fall front secretary cabinet, styled after a presentation example by 18th/19th century Viennese master cabinetmaker Franz Detler (Vienna 1785–1835).

The original can be admired in Vienna at the Austrian Museum of Applied Art, this exceptionally executed 20th century antique reproduction of a so-called Lyrase Secretaire is the crowning feature of all European furniture in the Biedermeier era.

To build this remarkable secretary today, one would still have to expect well over 600 hours of working time, this model likely worked for at least 8 months. Very few carpenters would venture to do this work, as it's reserved for only the highest trained and skilled master artisan.

Most impressive sculptural giant lyre form, fine quality solid wood construction wrapped in warm rich mahogany with hand polished shellac patina finish, elaborate hand carved giltwood and gilt painted scrollwork, corner posts, and feet, featuring fourteen drawers, each affixed with brilliant gilt brass lion pulls! Having a single drawer, over fall front cabinet door that doubles as a writing desk work surface, opening to reveal interior gallery fitted with ten drawers and central open mirrored compartment flanked by architectural classical columns, atop three lower drawers, rising on paw feet and rectangular platform base, further raised on ornate gilded scrolled feet.

A superb example of functional art furniture, it makes for a fascinating statement piece!

Dimensions: (approx)
63.5" High, 41" Wide, 19.5" Deep

Great original unrestored antique / vintage condition with beautifully aged warm rich dark patina. Strong, sturdy, stable, structurally sound. Presents splendidly, retaining original antique character. May have wear consistent with age and use. Overall a superb example. Delivered cleaned, waxed, with hand rubbed polished French patina finish, ready for immediate use and generational enjoyment! See less