Posted 7 years ago
Mosaicmouse
(6 items)
This secretaire has been in my family for many years. It has a writing desk and bookshelf. I think it is nineteenth century. Can anyone give me any further information? I have added a photo of the back of the drawer to help with identification.
19th century style likely, would have a lot more wear from then. Probably 1950 or so, but hard to tell from pics. They made a lot of that style back in the 60's and there were very many shops doing so, even in America, especially in European styles.
A photo of a drawer joint and the back should show the true age.
scott
The wavy glass and ivory inlay key escutcheon would lead me to believe it is 19th century.
Your secretary is made out of walnut.
scott
Thanks. I was told by a furniture dealer a long time ago that it was very old and you could tell by the glass and the ivory detail. I am inclined to think it is C19th rather than a modern reproduction. I will take a photo of the draw joint.
hi scottvez I have added a photo of the drawer joint. Does this give any more clues?
Yep-- looks like it is hand dovetailed.
A photo showing the other edge of the drawer and triangular portion of the dovetail would be better, but I can see enough to tell it is hand made.
Agree it is 19th century.
scott
Hi scottvez, I have added another photo of the drawer joint for you to check if you have time.
Additional joint photo is better.
As I said above your secretary is 19th century-- without a doubt. Condition is certainly a clue, but an antique doesn't have to show excessive wear or poor condition.
scott
Thanks scottvez. I was told several years ago that you could date it by the use of ivory inlay in the key escutcheon as ivory was not used after a particular date. I've forgotten the year. Would you have any idea?
I don't know of any particular date; however, it is more common in the 19th century.
It was mid to late 20th century when laws were enacted to protect endangered animals.
scott