^Lot 1 Continental Biedermeier Mahogany-Veneered Secrétaire à Abattant, 19th Century

Description
Continental Biedermeier secrétaire à abattant, probably German or Austrian, second quarter 19th century, veneered in figured mahogany over pine with a fitted light-birch or Karelian-birch interior. The rectilinear case with stepped superstructure above two short drawers and a fall-front writing section, opening to an elaborate fitted interior with eight small drawers, a narrow upper drawer, and a central cupboard, above three long drawers, raised on block feet. The restrained geometric form, figured mahogany veneer, and contrasting pale interior are all consistent with the Biedermeier taste of the first half of the 19th century. Dimensions approx. 43 x 21 x 67 in.

Condition: key present for the main section; all drawers work. One interior handle is broken off, and there is no key for the central inside compartment. Visible shrinkage crack to one side panel, together with surface scratches, wear, and age-related marks consistent with use, age, and character.