An exquisite English Georgian secretary bookcase of exceptional design and detail. The swan-necked broken pediment features gilt acanthus flourishes and rosettes with a central plinth with graduated bellflowers. The tympanum is composed of delicate Gothic pierced tracery and quatrefoils. The supporting cornice displays fine dentils and punches with a fine blind fret frieze. The glassed case is fronted by diamond and oval panes. The fall front desk opens to reveal pigeon holes and a series of drawers the prospect door with blind fretwork is flanked by two gilt fluted Corinthian pilasters which themselves pull-out to reveal secret compartments. The drawers beneath the desk retain their original brasses with bright gilding. The interior has been fitted with a lustrous velour velvet from Zuber et Cie. of Baroque design with acanthus and birds and vases. The velvet was hand woodblocked with gold leaf to created the design. An extraordinary piece of furniture of the most refined line and taste.

Provenance: Coolidge Family of Manchester, MA

Louis Joseph Antiquarian, Boston, MA 1929

Dearman Family, Cheshire, England.

Displays well, wear commensurate with age. Beautiful patination. Rubbing to gilt surfaces. Retains its three original wooden shelves.

H 92 in. x W 38 in. x D 20 in.

H 233.68 cm x W 96.52 cm x D 50.8 cm