17th Century German Baroque Walnut Secretary with Inlay
A fantastic, one-of-a-kind Baroque period walnut secretary made in Germany in the 1600s, featuring thick hand-cut walnut veneers and intricate inlays created using multiple contrasting woods.
This remarkable secretary retains its original working locks and key. The decorative brass escutcheons are later replacements, but are themselves very old and suit the character and age of the piece beautifully.
According to the previous owner, this wonderful secretary remained within the same family for approximately 400 years, traveling with successive generations from Germany to South Africa, Great Britain, various other European countries, and finally to the United States in 2019. While we do not have documentation to independently verify this family history, it was shared with us when the piece was acquired and forms a fascinating part of its story.
Adding another tangible connection to its past, three old postcards were discovered tucked behind the drawers. These will remain with the secretary and are included with the piece.
Its centuries of use and travel are embedded in the magnificent warm, aged patina. The thick walnut veneers, contrasting inlays, old repairs, and naturally worn surfaces give this extraordinary piece a depth and character that simply cannot be recreated.
At over four feet wide and weighing considerably more than its dimensions might suggest, this is an extremely heavy and robust piece of furniture that makes a magnificent statement in any home.
Condition
Good antique condition, particularly considering its approximately 400 years of age.
The secretary displays extensive age-related wear, marks, staining, imperfections, splitting, checking, chipping, losses, and numerous old repairs. These are an important part of the history and appearance of the piece and contribute enormously to its authentic old-world character and charm.
Despite its considerable age, this is an extremely heavy, robust piece that remains solid, sturdy, and ready for the home.
We have tried to show as much as possible in the photographs, so please zoom in and study them closely. Additional photographs are always available upon request.
Please note: Decorative accessories and styling items shown in the photographs are intended solely to help illustrate the scale and presentation of the piece and are not included unless specifically mentioned in the description.
Dimensions
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Width: 52 1/2"
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Depth: 26"
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Height: 50 1/2"
Specifications
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Item #: GY2756
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Period: 17th Century / 1600s
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Origin: Germany
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Style: Baroque
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Material: Walnut with Inlays of Multiple Contrasting Woods
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Construction: Thick Hand-Cut Walnut Veneers & Inlay
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Locks: Original & Working
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Key: Original & Working
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Escutcheons: Antique Later Replacements
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Includes: Three Old Postcards Discovered Behind the Drawers
Features
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Exceptional approximately 400-year-old German Baroque furniture
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Thick hand-cut walnut veneers with decorative multi-wood inlay
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Original working locks and key remarkably remain with the piece
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Three old postcards discovered behind the drawers are included
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Extremely heavy and robust construction
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Magnificent centuries-old patina with extensive authentic signs of age and use
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A truly one-of-a-kind statement piece with a fascinating history
Buy With Confidence
We understand that purchasing an antique of this age and significance online can be a substantial decision. If you would like a closer look before purchasing, we are happy to arrange a live video call and walk you through the secretary in real time.
During the call, we can show the walnut veneers, inlays, interior, drawers, locks and key, old repairs, areas of wear, and overall condition in detail and answer any questions you may have.
Please contact us to arrange a convenient time.
Shipping Quote & In-Store Pickup
Shipping is available within the contiguous USA only.
Shipping for this large and exceptionally heavy antique piece is quoted separately based on its size, weight, and delivery location.
For free in-store pickup at our Cary, North Carolina showroom, please click "Add to Cart" and choose "Pick Up" during checkout.
If you would like this item shipped, please click "Add to Shipping Quote" and submit your delivery details. We will review your request and contact you within 48 hours with a shipping estimate.
If you have any questions before placing your order, including shipping, combined purchases, or checkout, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to help ensure everything is handled smoothly.
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