Biedermeier Secretaire

vc-33-56

Vienna, c. 1820

Mahogany veneer
Interior: birch veneer and penwork

During the Biedermeier era, secretaires represented the most important piece of furniture in the living room. When not in use, the fall front could be raised and the owner’s private world kept safely under lock and key.

The focus of this elegant Viennese secretaire, a abbatant, is the contrasting birch veneered interior with the stage-like mirrored niche, flanked by ebonized columns.The Neoclassical penwork of the floor enhances the effect of this illusionary space. Underneath the floor, personal treasures could be hidden in secret compartments.

Height: 61” Width: 39.5” Depth: 18”

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