Swedish Gustavian 1790s Painted Slant-Front Desk with Carved Diamond Motifs

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A Swedish Gustavian period slant front desk from the late 18th century, with carved diamond motifs, multiple drawers, original lock … Read more A Swedish Gustavian period slant front desk from the late 18th century, with carved diamond motifs, multiple drawers, original lock and key. Created in Sweden during the last decade of the 18th century, this fine painted secretary features a slanted front, carved with diamond motifs and opening to reveal multiple drawers and compartments surrounding a central door. Two pull-outs below can be used to receive the writing area once open. The lower section presents three drawers all fitted with Classical hardware and flanked with thin canted semi-columns adorned with fluted accents. The secretary is painted in a soft color with slightly distressed finish, typical of the Swedish taste for light palettes aiming at brightening the rooms during the dark Scandinavian winters. The ensemble is raised on unusual bracket feet with fluted motifs.

The Gustavian style takes its roots in the Louis XVI era. Swedish King Gustav III resided in 1771 in Paris, at the beginning stages of the Louis XVI style. There, he was inspired by French art and fashion. With that in his luggage, he had a strong desire to introduce something similar in Sweden. The country had fine craftsmen with high quality craftsmanship, who produced a simple style with harmonious aesthetics. The Gustavian style was born and has been in vogue ever since. It is incredibly popular, especially in England but also in France and in the USA. Price and age are of course inextricably linked, the older and rarer the higher the price!

With its Classical lines and convenient features, this Gustavian period Swedish slant-front desk circa 1790 will make for a wonderful addition to any study, living room or bedroom! See less