R. Jorgensen Antiques

Register and create a new list

This Boston mahogany secretary has an imposing presence. It retains it's original finials and the "swan's-neck" pediment is all correct. The doors have flat panels that are set in carved stiles and rails, flanked by integral (attached to the doors) pilasters, all in excellent condition. The interior cubby holes are all original, there might be a missing shelf that would fit in the various choices.
The interior of this desk proper is a "Boston" interior, the first level with two drawers and the second level divided into five; the center and two outside sections blocked and fan carved drawers; the cubby hole sections with a blocked serpentine drawer supporting two cubby holes with a shaped divider headed by shaped valences. The center fan drawer (Prospect drawer) is flanked by vertical document drawers faced with half applied columns. All in perfect condition.
The right rear foot is an old replacement but all the other five brackets are original with the small repairs. This is a great antique New England desk. The base drawers are "Pigeon-breasted" reverse serpentine, boldly graduated with the "cock beading" on the case (typical Boston). The bail brass is original and very fancy.
Circa: 1770-80
In the third drawer is the label of "John Walton, Inc, New York".
Reference:
• “Three Centuries of American Furniture,” Oscar
Fitzgerald; (figure IV-60 withball & claw
feet).
• Antiques magazine April 2007 (page 51)
• Antiques Magazine September 1949 (Page 147
lower right).