1920s Monumental Art Deco Cathedral Form Secretary Desk

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"Monumental Gothic Art Deco skyscraper-form secretary cabinet executed in stained oak, strongly reminiscent of the Kansas City Power Light Building … Read more "Monumental Gothic Art Deco skyscraper-form secretary cabinet executed in stained oak, strongly reminiscent of the Kansas City Power Light Building and related American ""cathedrals of commerce"" architecture of the early 1930s. The cabinet is conceived as a miniature architectural tower, with a dramatic stepped silhouette rising through layered setbacks into a domed lantern crown inspired by Gothic Revival civic skyscrapers of the interwar period. Deeply carved vertical window motifs, pointed arch detailing, ribbed buttress-like projections, and repeating tower elements emphasize strong upward movement throughout the composition, closely echoing the monumental massing and ecclesiastical influence seen in landmark Art Deco towers of the era.

Each side of the facade opens outward to reveal concealed storage compartments integrated into the architectural form, while the central section unfolds into a compact secrétaire-style writing station fitted with a fold-down desk surface, interior cubbies, and a small drawer hidden behind the skyscraper facade. Two internal pull-chain lights illuminate the writing area and upper compartment, reinforcing the theatrical architectural presentation, while concealed casters beneath the base allow the substantial cabinet to be moved despite its monumental appearance. The combination of functional secretary desk construction and highly sculptural skyscraper styling places the piece within the broader tradition of American architectural ""skyscraper furniture"" popularized during the late 1920s and early 1930s, though this example displays a distinctly Gothic and civic interpretation rarely encountered in surviving forms.

Shows moderate age-related wear throughout including scattered surface scratches, finish wear, abrasions, and minor edge losses. Interior compartments show expected wear from use, with scattered discoloration and light staining. Lighting components appear older and functioned during photography. Casters retain movement. Some small separations, wear to edges, and minor inconsistencies to carved facade elements are present throughout commensurate with age and use.

43.5" W x 16" D x 74" H
Fold Down Writing Surface: 16" W x 19" D x 33" H
Side Tower Cubbies: 10" W x 15.25" D; Heights: 10.75", 12", 16"
Center Base Cubbies: 18" W x 11" D; Heights: 7", 8"", 9"

MM - 20831 - 051826
AF - 091026 See less