~ RARE FLAP-TOP SECRETARY DESK WITH HIDDEN COMPARTMENTS

Made of mahogany and mahogany veneer. It opens to reveal a drawer in the upper section, surmounted by a double-leaf flap that opens like a wallet, revealing a green and gold leather writing surface with metal fittings, storage compartments and four drawers. In the lower section, two panels open to reveal a drawer surmounted by a false drawer forming a storage compartment. Clover-shaped key and intricate diamond-shaped key (present), lock with numerous bolts. Gilded bronze fittings including palmettes, framing mouldings and the Chariot of Love. Portor marble top. Two secret compartments: once opened, the flap reveals drawers and a central compartment. Removing the top right-hand drawer halfway along its length allows the central compartment to be removed, revealing a space in which, by moving two metal slides sideways (left and right), two concealed compartments can be slid towards the centre. Another secret: the top drawer, once removed, reveals a metal lock secured by four screws. Pressing the front right-hand screw of this lock activates a spring that lifts the base of the compartment that contained the drawer, thereby revealing a large secret compartment. Stamped ‘Jacob Frères Rue Meslée’. Consulate period. Height: 153 cm – Width: 96 cm – Depth: 36 m (Restored, in very fine overall condition, with a few minor imperfections visible). Swietenia mahagoni (II/B). Pre-Convention specimen.

Estimation:€6,000

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