Object Description
A 18th century Louis XVI drop-front secretaire (secrétaire à abattant), attributed to the menusier François-Noël Geny (1731-1804, maitre 1773) from Lyon.
The writing cabinet veneered in kingwood and tulipwood on a ground of pine. The top of the secretaire is set with a slab of veined white marble, of rectangular form with canted front corners. Below a frieze drawer with marquetry simulating fluting. The fall front quarter-veneered with a central medallion depicting compass, globe, antique urn, quill and color palette – symbolizing art and science and a possible reference to a scholar patron. The hinged fall front inside lined with a beautiful patinated green leather and gives access to a single partition; a double partition; and a partition flanked by three drawers each. Very fine banding of colored woods frames the partitions. Below are cupboard doors giving access to a shelf. Raised on bracket feet with a small lower apron.