UPDATE
Some wonderful people have commented that this is an 1800's American Empire Butler's Secretary. The wood is Flaming Mahogany. Who knew? Thanks everyone! My in-laws were here a few weeks ago and they brought with them this fabulous piece of furniture.
This beauty is big and dramatic. It has gorgeous details. But what is it exactly? I know it's a secretary, but how old? Is it European? British? What kind of wood is that? What is this style called?
Brass insets.
Cool pulls.
More cool pulls. Lions? Panthers?
The feet are huge!
Tin mirrors! I'd never heard of tin mirrors.
Inside.
And finally, a writing surface inside the top drawer.
Cool, huh?
I've googled but didn't find anything that looked like this. Anyone know what it is?
Am I going to paint it? Nope. This big boy is way too fabulous. I have no idea what I'll do with it. Mr. Bad wants to keep it but I have another piece of furniture waiting for this spot. (Empire dresser, be still my heart.)
Decisions. Decisions.
This is an AMAZING piece!!! I'm so glad to hear you are not going to paint it. The details couldn't be any more delicious! Lucky girl!
ReplyDeleteRichard, at "My Old Historic Hous"e would know! He knows everything!
ReplyDeleteIt is a stunning piece!
xo
Andie
Ooohhhh Bad rabbit! You must have been very good to receive such a beautiful piece! My guess is an American Empire butler's desk in flame mahogany.
ReplyDeleteI am going to guess that it is an American Empire burled walnut or mahogany. secretary, late 18th Century?
ReplyDeleteAndie
Hmmm... This style was America's response to the rise of the French Empire... so probably early to mid 1800's.
ReplyDeleteLOL! Julie and I must have hit "send" at the same time! I have been googling like a madwoman!
ReplyDeleteAndie
A butler's secretary perhaps. Surely early Empire.
ReplyDeleteMy guess is a mid 1800's gentleman's dresser. They had dresser and desk all in one at that time. It's a stunning piece of furniture and the condition is amazing!
ReplyDelete