18th C Antique New England Chippendale Apple Wood Slant Lid Secretary Desk
18th C Antique New England Chippendale Apple Wood Slant Lid Secretary Desk
Bay Colony Antiques is proud to offer for sale this fantastic 18th century antique Chippendale Apple wood slant lid desk. We love fruitwood furniture and try to purchase any piece we encounter, but even with our immense volume they don’t surface too often. Apple wood wasn’t an overly popular wood for cabinet making because the trunks don’t grow very wide, and most trees have an uninspiring grain pattern. This specimen is definitely an exception with a bustling grain pattern finished in a beautiful amber color.
The desk has exposed dovetails at the top and dovetailed transitions. The lid is peg joined and opens to reveal an 8 drawer interior with 2 additional drawers behind the valence door. We really enjoy the symmetry & layout of the interior and the different size drawers are practical for modern use. The admirable grain is again highlighted on the drawer faces and subconsciously draws your eyes front and center. The drawers have molded edges and are equipped with traditional brass pulls and oval escutcheon covers. The feet have been restored, but the restoration was masterfully done and clearly completed by a highly skilled cabinet maker with an intimate knowledge about 18th century furniture. The desk is in very good condition with our only notes being minor surface wear & a small loss on the top board from the lid lock. The desk measures 39” x 20” deep x 43 1/2” tall. When the lid is open the depth changes from 20” deep to 33 1/2” deep.