Sheraton Scriban/library, Secretary Desk, English Writing Desk, 19th Century England, Mahogany

A beautiful English secretary desk in the purest Sheraton style, made by Anderson, Stanford and Ridgeway in Dublin, dating from the early 19th century. The upper section features two glazed doors with attractively irregular antique glass. The interior comprises three shelves: the central shelf is fixed, while the other two can be moved thanks to grooved side supports. The lower section consists of four through drawers surmounted by a drop-front revealing a superb display compartment. This compartment contains a series of small, finely inlaid drawers (including two "secret" drawers) and storage niches. A small central inlaid door depicting a costumed figure opens to another compartment with a drawer (the lock has been replaced with a small handle). This writing desk displays exquisite marquetry work typical of the Sheraton style; the interplay of colors and shadows gives relief and depth to the fan and rosette motifs. This piece is in good condition. It obviously shows signs of wear given its age and the way it has been used. Veneer grafts are present on both sides of the piece (see photo 12). One of the glass panes has a very small crack, which has been completely repaired: in fact, all the panes were re-glazed at the end of the 19th century. The varnish on the drop-front shows some wear (visible only when held up to the light). The manufacturer's plate is present inside one of the drawers.