Secrétaire - Marquetry
Starting bid
€ 1
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Expert
Selected by Anna Hue-Roques
Holds bachelor's degrees in Law and Art History with an Ecole du Louvre auctioneer diploma.
Estimate € 1,200 - € 1,500
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Description from the seller
Elegant Italian Neoclassical Style Inlaid Flap Desk (Ribalta) - With Secret Compartment - Mid-20th Century
An exceptionally elegant Italian slant-front flap desk (ribalta or secrétaire) crafted in the refined Neoclassical (Louis XVI) style, heavily inspired by the historic cabinetmaking traditions of Giuseppe Maggiolini.
Dating to the mid-to-late 20th century, this piece is an exquisite example of high-quality decorative furniture making.
• Exquisite Marquetry: The exterior surfaces, including the sides, top, drawer fronts, and the main drop-front flap, are entirely adorned with intricate, multi-wood inlays. It features contrasting grains of walnut, maple, and fruitwood forming beautiful geometric borders, floral scrollwork, and a central neoclassical urn motif.
• Fitted Interior & Secret Cavity: The fall-front opens to reveal a beautifully arranged interior theater containing small storage drawers and pigeonholes. Notably, the architectural columns conceal a hidden sliding panel / secret compartment (as shown in the detailed photos), adding a delightful touch of historic mystery and functionality.
• Lower Storage: The lower section features a chest arrangement with three beautifully veneered drawers providing ample storage space.
• Condition: In excellent vintage condition with minor, natural signs of wear consistent with age and careful use. The wood retains a beautiful, rich luster and the structure remains entirely solid.
Dimensions:
Height 111cm x width 115cm x depth 54cm
Made in Italy
Period 1950s/1960s
Elegant Italian Neoclassical Style Inlaid Flap Desk (Ribalta) - With Secret Compartment - Mid-20th Century
An exceptionally elegant Italian slant-front flap desk (ribalta or secrétaire) crafted in the refined Neoclassical (Louis XVI) style, heavily inspired by the historic cabinetmaking traditions of Giuseppe Maggiolini.
Dating to the mid-to-late 20th century, this piece is an exquisite example of high-quality decorative furniture making.
• Exquisite Marquetry: The exterior surfaces, including the sides, top, drawer fronts, and the main drop-front flap, are entirely adorned with intricate, multi-wood inlays. It features contrasting grains of walnut, maple, and fruitwood forming beautiful geometric borders, floral scrollwork, and a central neoclassical urn motif.
• Fitted Interior & Secret Cavity: The fall-front opens to reveal a beautifully arranged interior theater containing small storage drawers and pigeonholes. Notably, the architectural columns conceal a hidden sliding panel / secret compartment (as shown in the detailed photos), adding a delightful touch of historic mystery and functionality.
• Lower Storage: The lower section features a chest arrangement with three beautifully veneered drawers providing ample storage space.
• Condition: In excellent vintage condition with minor, natural signs of wear consistent with age and careful use. The wood retains a beautiful, rich luster and the structure remains entirely solid.
Dimensions:
Height 111cm x width 115cm x depth 54cm
Made in Italy
Period 1950s/1960s
Details
Era
1900-2000
Style subtype
Neo-Classicism
Number of objects
1
Country of origin
Italy
Material
Marquetry
Style
Antique
Colour
Brown
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
111 cm
Width
115 cm
Depth
54 cm
Can Be Locked
Yes
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