Terms and conditions of use
Writing cabinet
(Secrétaire à abattant)
(c. 1780)
Medium
Tulipwood, Kingwood, Satinwood, wood, Oak, marble, gilt-bronze (ormolu), leather, brass, steel, silver, glass
Measurements
(a-p) 142.2 × 98.4 × 46.1 cm (overall) (closed)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Presented through The Art Foundation of Victoria by Mr James Fairfax AO, Honorary Life Benefactor, 1996
Gallery location
Not on display
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Paris, France
Inscription
(a) punched (vertically) in rear u.l.: N· PETIT JME (monogram)
punched (vertically) in rear u. r.: JME (monogram) N· PETIT JME (monogram)
Accession Number
1996.118.a-p
Department
International Decorative Arts
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of Digitisation Champion Ms Carol Grigor through Metal Manufactures Limited
Physical description
The secretaire with a mottled 'rouge de fer' marble top, the frieze with ormolu guilloche borders enclosing rosettes flanked at the angles by oval ormolu classical figures and oak sprays, the full front opening to reveal short drawers and cupboards and inlaid with a Mandarin and his attendants within an oval surround in contrasting stained wood. The sides panelled with antique vases, the lower part similarly inlaid with two panelled doors enclosing shelves, on claw and foliage feet.