Antique Genoese Cylinder Secretaire, 1800s

Details

Description

Furniture Type: Cylinder (or roller) writing desk, sideboard.
Period: Late 18th century (Neoclassical period, Italian Louis XVI style).
Geographical Area: … Read more Furniture Type: Cylinder (or roller) writing desk, sideboard.
Period: Late 18th century (Neoclassical period, Italian Louis XVI style).
Geographical Area: Genoese manufacture.

Wood and Veneer Finish: The piece is entirely veneered in walnut burl with a particularly rich, flamed grain that creates a magnificent "book-matched" or symmetrical effect on the drawer fronts and the cylinder. Veneer finish is a distinctive feature of luxury cabinetmaking of the period.

Inlays and Trim: The structure is beautifully framed by thin, precise inlays in pale boxwood. Key elements include:

A stringcourse decorated with an elegant Greek key or spindle motif, a classic of Neoclassicism.

Trimmings that frame the veneer panels, enhancing the interplay of grain.

The sides feature squares that follow the rounded shape of the cylinder, with a central diamond or "bird's eye" motif.

Structure and Functionality: The piece is a two-piece dresser/desk with:

Lower body: Composed of two large rectangular drawers, embellished with wood grain.

Upper body (Desk): Featuring a refined cylinder/roller drawer that, when slid, reveals an internal storage compartment complete with:

A pull-out writing surface.

Small drawers and open compartments for storing correspondence and stationery.

Legs: They rest on elegant tapered legs, another typical element of the Louis XVI/Neoclassical style, which taper slightly towards the bottom. They are decorated with alternating light and dark woods that create a raked or vertical banded pattern.

Hardware: The hardware is chiseled bronze and features:

Elegant handles with circular rosettes on the drawers.

Bronze lock escutcheons, which contribute to the rich aesthetic.

Condition: Excellent condition, with a shellac polish that enhances the depth of the grain.

Dimensions: 108 x 51 cm, height 107 cm. See less