A Classical Bookcase Secretary

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Circa 1825
In the manner of Anthony Quervelle

This beautiful Classical bookcase secretary has many features that one sees in fine furniture in the manner of the cabinetmaker Anthony Quervelle. The cornice is composed of multiple moldings above a flat apron faced with book-matched crotch mahogany veneers. Tall tapering columns with carved capitals are affixed to the doors of the bookcase. The panes of glass are divided by mullions carved with delicate leaves and honeysuckle. The doors of the secretary feature a large sunburst composed of curved radiating sections covered in crotch mahogany veneers. The sunburst is outlined in a rope-like carving and foliate carvings accent the upper corners of the doors.  As executed on the upper case, columns are attached on either side of the doors. The pullout desk drawer features large raised diamond decorations in two paneled sections. Two smaller raised diamonds are placed on either side of the desk drawer. The desk opens to reveal a baize covered writing surface. Multiple drawers offer storage and are faced with Carpathian burl veneers. Above the drawers are open sections divided by small columns. The bottom of the desk section is decorated with a line of foliate carving. The entire case rests on large animal paw feet.

Mahogany, (Secondary woods: pine, poplar, and Carpathian elm burl veneer)
Height: 93” Width: 48” Depth: 26”
C1086
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