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19th Century French Empire Walnut Secretary (Secrétaire) Cabinet
DESCRIPTION
A 19th-century French Empire walnut secrétaire cabinet, combining the appearance of a traditional tall chest with an ingenious arrangement of concealed storage and writing compartments.
 
The moulded top sits above a lift-up compartment, modelled as two dummy drawer fronts and supported by a pull-out slide. Beneath are two drawers with hinged fall fronts opening to reveal shelved interiors, above a further four graduated drawers. The thoughtful arrangement provides a combination of concealed storage, shelving and drawer space, making the cabinet both practical and versatile.
 
The chest retains brass lion's mask ring-drop handles and shield-shaped escutcheons. The locks appear to be original, and the cabinet is accompanied by two working keys.
Closely related in form to the French semainier, this is an unusual and well-designed piece that would be equally suited for use in a bedroom, study or hallway.
 
DIMENSIONS
Height: 162cm
Width: 84cm
Depth: 63cm
 
CONDITION
The cabinet is in good, solid condition and presents well overall. There are light marks, knocks and scratches consistent with its age and use. There is some historic movement to the veneer, principally to the upper drawer front, resulting in minor splitting and lifting, although the veneer remains stable. Minor splits to the sides have been closed and reinforced internally.
 
One of the retaining hooks for a hinged fall front is missing, although the flap remains supported by the fixing on the opposite side and functions as intended. The drawers run smoothly, the concealed storage compartment and hinged fall fronts operate correctly, and the locks appear to be original. Two working keys are included.
 
Overall, this is an attractive and practical nineteenth-century French cabinet with honest signs of age and use

19th Century French Empire Walnut Secretary (Secrétaire) Cabinet

£995.00Price

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    AUTHENTICITY, CONDITION & VIEWINGS

    We strive to describe every item as accurately and honestly as possible, highlighting both its strengths and any significant faults.

    Statements regarding age, attribution, origin and provenance are offered in good faith and represent our professional opinion based on the information available at the time of listing. As all of our items are antique or vintage, minor imperfections, evidence of use and signs of age should be expected and are considered part of their authenticity and appeal.

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    Viewing is welcome by appointment at our premises in North Yorkshire.

    If there is anything you would like to know before purchasing, we are always happy to answer questions or provide additional photographs.

    DELIVERY

    We can usually arrange delivery throughout mainland UK using trusted independent couriers. Delivery is charged at cost, and quotations are available on request. As a general guide, delivery for an average-sized chest of drawers is typically between £80 and £100. Larger items and more remote locations will incur higher charges.

    Most deliveries are completed within approximately two weeks, although faster delivery may sometimes be available. Please contact us with your postcode for a delivery quotation before purchasing.

    Collections are welcomed by prior arrangement from our address in North Yorkshire.

    REFUNDS & RETURNS

    Full refunds will be provided for all items returned in the same condition as they were sold within 30 days of purchase. 

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