18th C Spanish Baroque Walnut Bargueno or Fall Front Writing Desk

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An exceptional quality 18th-century Spanish Bargueño desk cabinet, masterfully handcrafted in richly patinated walnut with exceptional architectural presence. The fall-front … Read more An exceptional quality 18th-century Spanish Bargueño desk cabinet, masterfully handcrafted in richly patinated walnut with exceptional architectural presence. The fall-front writing surface opens to reveal an intricately fitted interior of numerous drawers and cupboards surrounding a central writing compartment, designed to securely store correspondence, documents, and valuables. Retaining its original paneled base, substantial molded cornice, keys and beautifully aged iron hardware, this museum-worthy cabinet exemplifies the craftsmanship and functionality of early Spanish furniture. The "Bargueño" or Vargueno is also called "Salamanca desk" which is the most representative of the Spanish Baroque. It was developed mainly along the seventeenth century and reached its employment and production, at least until the first quarter of the 18th century. Because, for lack of documentation, workshops responsible for these units are unknown and it is unknown if only in Salamanca would also be created or elsewhere, experts have proposed its designation as "desks columns" because this decorative element is the most characteristic in the preserved examples. Another common feature in these desks are decorative and functional hardware that this piece shows. It is a cabinet upon cabinet, and has its original keys, allowing the storage of important documents and other valuable properties inside drawers and doors closed and locked. With its incredible centuries-old patina and commanding scale, it is an outstanding statement piece for a library, study, or any distinguished interior. From Avignon, France. #8011 See less