Biedermeier Chest, Secretary or Cabinet, Walnut, Southern Germany, circa 1830

Southern Germany
Walnut, birch
Biedermeier around 1830

Dimensions: H x W x D: 191 x 126 x 64 cm

Description:
Exceptional two-part piece of furniture with writing drawer and numerous drawers in the top.

Chest of drawers standing on straight square legs. The base and top protrude slightly beyond the body.
The top of the four drawers has a hinged front and can therefore be used as a work surface. The ebonised top of this drawer probably served as a writing surface. There is enough legroom to work comfortably sitting on a chair. However, it could also have been used as an additional surface, similar to a buffet or sideboard.

Unlike many other pieces of furniture of the time, the doors of the top unit can be opened fully, i.e. 180 degrees. Behind them are nine small drawers veneered in birch. The open compartments at the top may have been used to store books.

The piece of furniture shown here is a first-class example of furniture design in German-speaking countries in the first half of the 19th century. In addition to the basic cubist form, the strict symmetry is particularly characteristic of Biedermeier furniture in southern Germany and Austria.
The two-dimensionality of the front and sides is emphasised by the mirrored walnut veneer that runs across all elements. The large knots are repeated four times on the front of the chest of drawers and also mirrored upwards on the two doors of the centrepiece.
The horizontal axis of symmetry runs along the lower end of the top, so the downward reflection begins on the top of the chest of drawers. This detail can be clearly seen in one of the photos.
The surfaces are subtly interrupted by the black key plates in the shape of coats of arms.

Condition:
Restored and shellac polished condition. The piece of furniture is absolutely suitable for everyday use. The locks of the chest of drawers were replaced in an older restoration.