Secretary and cabinet

Dateca. 1765

MediumMahogany, ebony, boxwood, deal, and oak.

DimensionsOH: 97 3/4"; OW: 45 1/4"; OD: 25 1/2".

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-834

DescriptionThe secretary-bookcase, which resembles a linen press when closed, is divided into three units, which are detachable: the pediment, the upper case, and the lower case. Pediment is of the "broken arch" type, open in back, and with a large flat-top plinth between the arches. In front and on sides is molding, and a strip of dentil-work below it. These are the essential elements of the top unit; the middle section, directly below, is capped with a strap-work frieze which extends as a strip around the top. Below this, in front, are two tall paneled doors, hinged at their outer sides. Panels veneered with crotch mahogany, and are defined by shallow, applied moldings, which are straight- sided except at their corners, which are quarter-round. When opened, revealed is large interior section which is divided into four equally proportioned areas. A centrally placed board runs from top to bottom; a shelf divides the areas horizontally. Above this shelf are two large open spaces. The one on the right-hand side is channeled along its top and bottom with grooves which could fit boards which would divide this area into a series of vertical compartments for tall books and ledgers. As it is now, a horizontally placed board has been affixed in the center. This probably not original. The left-hand upper area has grooves cut into the sides, to house horizontal shelving. Only one shelf remains; it is in the center. The bottom areas of the interior are symmetrically arranged with a row of six drawers, graduated in size, on each side of the large central board. The cupboard unit rests upon the base, and is flush at the sides; protrudes only slightly at front. A thin molding covers the dividing line. The front of the lower case piece is divided into four horizontal sections, not graduated in size. Top section is one large drawer; the second section is composed of three smaller drawers in a row; the third section is divided in half, to make two large drawers; the bottom section is one large drawer. The top drawer is a "secretaire drawer;" it pulls out half way, and the front drops down to provide the writing surface. Behind are six small drawers, four cubby holes, and a cupboard in the center. Cupboard is paneled and arched in "Gothick" taste; its door opens to reveal "Tiled" floor with alternating ebony and boxwood diamonds; at back is a mirror. Below parterre is small drawer. Escutcheons and handles on exterior are cast; resemble bronze dore ornaments applied to French furniture of the period. Brasses on interior simpler. Whole stands on ogee bracket feet.

Woods: Mahogany, ebony, boxwood; Secondary: deal, oak.
MarkingsNone.