Antique Secretary Desk, Outstanding, Victorian, Burl Walnut #22683

Date: Circa 1880

Wood: Walnut with Burl Walnut

Dimensions: 34” W × 18½” D × 71” H

Writing Height: 32”

An exceptional circa 1880 Victorian secretary desk featuring beautiful walnut construction and an extraordinary display of richly figured burl walnut. This is a particularly high-quality example, combining a compact footprint with elaborate Victorian cabinetmaking and a remarkably well-preserved original interior.

The front is dominated by spectacular oval and elongated burl walnut panels, including a large oval panel on the drop-front writing lid, matching burl panels across the drawers, and another dramatic oval burl panel in the upper gallery. Darker walnut moldings and applied architectural details frame the burl beautifully and give the piece tremendous depth and character.

The tall gallery is especially impressive, with an elaborate carved and shaped crest, scrolling architectural details, shelves, and additional burl walnut decoration.

Open the drop-front writing lid to reveal the original fitted secretary interior with four small burl-front drawers, open cubbies, shelves, dividers, and delicate fretwork detailing. Burl accents even continue onto the drawer fronts and interior cubby work—an indication of the quality and attention to detail that went into this desk.

Below the writing surface are three full-width drawers, each incorporating highly figured burl walnut panels and surrounded by handsome molded walnut framing. The secretary rests on its original-style casters, making this substantial piece easier to position.

Features

* Circa 1880 Victorian secretary desk

* Walnut construction

* Exceptional burl walnut panels throughout

* Large oval burl panel on drop-front writing lid

* Elaborate upper gallery with additional oval burl panel

* Ornate carved and shaped Victorian crest

* Drop-front writing surface

* Original fitted secretary interior

* Four small burl walnut interior drawers

* Multiple cubbies, shelves, and dividers

* Decorative fretwork within the interior

* Three full-width lower drawers

* Beautiful architectural moldings and applied details

* Burl walnut accents carried throughout the entire design

* Compact 34” width

* Writing surface approximately 32” high

* Original felt writing surface

* Casters for easier movement

* Exceptional original condition

Condition

This secretary is in outstanding original antique condition and appears remarkably untouched for a Victorian piece dating to the 1880s. The original finish has been beautifully preserved, with the kind of depth and patina that is increasingly difficult to find.

The original felt remains on the writing surface and shows noticeable wear, staining, and age—the primary area that visibly reflects the desk’s roughly 140 years of use. Otherwise, there are normal minor nicks, dings, surface marks, and wear consistent with age.

There is also a small crack on the right side of the writing lid. No key was found with the desk.

Please note: This antique secretary does not include a key. Antique locks should not be forced or operated with an improperly fitted replacement key, as damage to the original lock may result.

Please review all photographs closely, as they are an important part of the condition description.

Shipping starts at $400 for driveway delivery within our normal New England delivery area. Deliveries outside New England will incur additional charges, particularly to the Midwest and West Coast. Please contact Maine Antique Furniture before purchasing for a shipping quote outside New England.