Flemish Oak Fall Front Secretary Bureau Desk with Secret Compartments

Description

Attractive early 18th century Flemish oak fall-front Secretary Desk with 2 secret compartments

This fall-front Secretary writing bureau has 3 large drawers
The brass handles of the drawers are not all original but quite fit with eachother

The piece has two arms that extend from the front of the desk to support the fold-down to reveal the stunning cabinet interior with 8 small drawers with original brass knobs, seven filing sections, 6 pull-out letter departments with underneath and behind bar you find the lever the to open a large hidden place you can slide open. The other secret space is a small drawer hidden behind another shorter drawer ( see pictures)

Secret compartments in furniture were one method of protecting one's most valuable possessions against thieves - secret safes, false bottoms, hidden cabinets, and cleverly placed panels were all used to baffle outsiders.

Some small restaurations like the replacement of the hinges the back right feet has been replaced and a crack at the left side has been restored but overall in a very good condition with normal signs of wear.
For the drawers are no keys available 

This secrétaire can be used as a writing desk but the chair you need has to be at least 56 cm seat height so that is higher than a normal chair

The secrétaire desk was an innovative piece of writing furniture introduced in the early 18th century for the wealthiest households and this particular is so well built and carved by great crafsmen of that period and has an unique patina of usage through the ages.

This large secretary bureau exudes solidity and will make a great focal point in any space

Size 116,5 cm high, 60 cm deep and 134 cm wide

Flat writing area, when opened, 125 cm x 46 cm. Writing surface is 81cm high from the floor