Description:

English Secretaire Featuring Intricate Shakespearean Carvings
Up for auction is a remarkable, one of a kind English oak slant-top secretary desk with a bookcase top, a testament to fine craftsmanship and historical artistry. The piece is profusely decorated with intricate carvings, including carved Shakespeare masked lopers that enhance its antique charm. The lower section features four drawers, each fitted with brass handles (bottom right is missing) for a touch of elegance. Above these drawers, an arched opening provides a unique architectural element to the desk.
The slant top itself is a canvas of narrative art, with the left panel carved with "Prince of Bretagne" and the right panel depicting "Thisbe and Pyramus," scenes inspired by Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." The front scene, rich with detail, brings this classic play to life through woodwork, showcasing the talent of its creators.
Please note, the front right foot of this secretary desk is broken, and a piece of wood has been placed underneath for support, which does not detract from its overall beauty but is mentioned for transparency. This piece, with its rich patina and historical significance, is not just furniture but a piece of art, ideal for collectors or those who appreciate the blend of utility and storytelling in antique furniture. Its presence in any room would undoubtedly serve as a focal point, inviting conversation and admiration.
Given the intricate carvings, the style of the furniture, and the reference to Shakespearean plays, this English oak slant-top secretary desk with a bookcase top is likely from the late 17th to early 18th century, specifically within the William and Mary or Queen Anne period (circa 1689-1750). However, without a precise examination or provenance, this remains an educated guess based on the stylistic elements and historical context provided by the carvings. Note missing trim at right front foot. Two pieces.
It measures about 35" wide, 20" deep, and 86" tall.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Pickup of items won will be the week of March 17th. We will be open Monday - Thursday from 10am-4pm and Saturday from 10am-noon that week. If these times are not convenient, please call Bruce Wise at 859-321-1230 to schedule.
If you have not paid online, then payment can be made at pickup. Please bring your own packaging and additional help if needed for loading items. All removals must be completed in a professional and tidy manner. Not responsible for accidents.

For those buyers who wish to have their merchandise sent or who are out of the area and will not pick the items up, shipping arrangements can be made through the buyer's own shipper as Caswell Prewitt Realty does not provide in-house packing or shipping. All packing and shipping of merchandise will be at the risk and expense of the buyer. A list of shippers that have been used by past customers is below: It is the buyer's responsibility to contact the shipper and then contact Bruce Wise at 859-321-1230 to communicate which shipper you are using so we can coordinate getting it into their hands.


The Mailroom, Lexington, Ky - 859 268 0206, [email protected]
UPS - Winchester - 859-745-4422, [email protected]

Shippers are independent of Caswell Prewitt Realty and are not endorsed by it; therefore, we are not responsible for problems associated with shipping. Merchandise is stored at the risk of the purchaser.

March 16, 2025 6:00 PM EDT
Mt. Sterling, KY, US

Caswell Prewitt Realty, INC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 15% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $5
$100 $249 $10
$250 $999 $25
$1,000 $4,999 $50
$5,000 + $100