This small scale secretary is a well-documented form that was produced c. 1790-1810 and is illustrated in much of the literature i.e. see Furniture, Silver, and Porcelains of Distinguished Provenance, Israel Sack. For a related secretary, from New Fine Points of Furniture, by Albert Sack click here.

Of particular interest here is the fully developed interior within the crosshatched doors, revealing drawers and pigeonholes. This secretary is in two parts, the upper section with shaped crest centering a rectangular inlaid satinwood embellishment below brass ball and steeple finials. The lower section with hinged writing flap above four crossbanded, graduated, cockbeaded drawers on slightly flared French bracket feet completes this form.

Note the drawers are cross banded with satinwood line inlay and beautiful ivory eschutcheons. Further, the upper pediment has crotch grain inlaid panels which are similarly line inlaid. All of the small details added to the cost of the piece, and this one is particularly special. Also note that the hinges on the writing flap are original and there are no breakouts or repairs, as this piece was obviously cared for through the years.

Additional Images - Click below to ENLARGE