A Josephinian Cylinder Desk (Zylindersekretär)

Wood

This exceptional "Damen Schreibsekretär" (Lady’s Writing Desk) is a top-quality example of the Josephinian style, the Austrian expression of Neoclassicism prevalent during the reign of Joseph II. The desk features a sophisticated cylinder roll-top adorned with central sunburst marquetry and delicate floral sprays in the corners. The top is framed by a finely carved gallery with a classic dentil motif.
The lower section is designed with a practical kneehole configuration, flanked by two banks of three drawers, with a wider central drawer above the opening. Each drawer front is meticulously inlaid with geometric banding and fitted with original or period-correct circular brass pulls. The side panels continue the high-quality marquetry theme with large cross-banded diamonds. The entire piece is supported by elegant, tapered square legs ending in delicate feet. Fine fruitwood and walnut veneers with elaborate maple and plum wood marquetry , 108 x 93 x 65 cm