Secrétaires and Settimini: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Secrétaires and Settimini

Secrétaires and settimini are elegant pieces of furniture designed for writing and storage, often embodying exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance. This guide explores their history, helps you identify different styles, and provides a comprehensive overview of these beautiful objects.

History of Secrétaires

The secrétaire, derived from the French word for secretary, evolved as a sophisticated writing desk in the 18th century. It became a popular piece among the aristocracy and wealthy bourgeoisie, reflecting a growing emphasis on literacy and correspondence. Early secrétaires were often elaborate, incorporating intricate marquetry, fine veneers, and ormolu mounts.

Evolution Through Eras

Louis XV (1715-1774): Characterized by curvaceous lines, asymmetrical designs, and elaborate ornamentation. Common features included bombe shapes, cabriole legs, and floral marquetry.
Louis XVI (1774-1792): Emphasized Neoclassical elements, featuring straight lines, geometric shapes, fluted legs, and restrained ornamentation. Motifs included classical figures, laurel wreaths, and acanthus leaves.
Directoire (1795-1799): A transitional style between Louis XVI and Empire, known for its simplicity and functionality. Secrétaires during this period often showcased clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
Empire (1804-1815): Inspired by ancient Rome and Greece, Empire secrétaires featured bold, architectural forms, and rich materials like mahogany and ebony. Common decorative elements included bronze mounts depicting eagles, sphinxes, and other imperial symbols.

History of Settimini

The "settimino" (plural "settimini") is an Italian term for a tall, slender chest of drawers, typically with seven drawers, one for each day of the week. They emerged in the 18th century, particularly in Italy, as a practical and stylish solution for organizing clothing and personal items in the often cramped spaces of urban homes. While not strictly writing desks, settimini often served a similar purpose of personal organization and storage of small documents or writing implements within their drawers.

Regional Variations in Settimini

Italian settimini exhibit significant regional variations in design and materials:

Venetian Settimini: Often decorated with elaborate lacquerwork, chinoiserie motifs, and vibrant colors. Characterized by a sense of lightness and elegance.
Florentine Settimini: Tend to be more restrained in their ornamentation, often featuring walnut or other hardwoods and understated carving. Focus on functionality and craftsmanship.
Roman Settimini: May incorporate elements of Neoclassical style, with straight lines, geometric shapes, and classical motifs. Can be more imposing in scale and design.

Identifying Secrétaire Styles

Identifying the style of a secrétaire requires careful observation of its form, ornamentation, and materials.

Key Elements to Consider

Leg Style: Cabriole legs are characteristic of Louis XV, while straight, tapered legs are common in Louis XVI and Empire styles.
Ornamentation: Look for marquetry, ormolu mounts, carving, and veneers. The motifs and quality of these details can help pinpoint the period and maker.
Wood Type: Mahogany, walnut, rosewood, and fruitwoods were commonly used. The type of wood can indicate the region of origin and the period.
Hardware: Original handles, escutcheons, and locks can provide valuable clues about the age and authenticity of the piece.
Construction: Examine the joinery and construction techniques. Dovetail joints, hand-cut veneers, and other signs of craftsmanship are indicative of high-quality antique secrétaires.

Identifying Settimino Styles

Identifying settimino styles involves examining similar elements, but with a focus on the overall form and decorative elements specific to Italian furniture.

Key Elements to Consider

Number of Drawers: While typically seven, some variations exist. Verify the drawer configuration.
Height and Proportion: Settimini are generally tall and slender. Assess the overall proportions and how they relate to different regional styles.
Decoration: Look for lacquerwork, carving, inlays, and painted decoration. The style and quality of the decoration are crucial for identification.
Foot Style: Feet can range from simple bracket feet to more elaborate carved or turned feet. The foot style can indicate the period and region of origin.
Drawer Configuration: Examine the size and arrangement of the drawers. Variations in drawer size and placement can be indicative of different styles.

Materials and Techniques

Both secrétaires and settimini showcase a wide range of materials and techniques. Understanding these can aid in identification and appreciation.

Common Materials

Wood: Mahogany, walnut, rosewood, oak, fruitwoods, and ebony were commonly used.
Veneer: Thin layers of exotic woods were often applied to a less expensive substrate to create decorative surfaces.
Marquetry: Intricate patterns created by inlaying pieces of different colored woods, ivory, or other materials.
Ormolu: Gilded bronze mounts used for decoration and protection.
Lacquer: A decorative coating, often applied in multiple layers, to create a glossy, durable finish, particularly in Venetian settimini.

Key Techniques

Dovetail Joints: Strong and durable joints used to connect drawers and cabinet components.
Hand-Carving: Intricate carving was a common feature on high-quality pieces.
French Polishing: A time-consuming technique used to create a high-gloss finish.
Chinoiserie: Decorative style inspired by Chinese art and design, frequently used in Venetian lacquerwork.

Conclusion

Secrétaires and settimini represent a rich history of design and craftsmanship. By understanding their evolution, key features, and materials, you can appreciate the artistry and historical significance of these elegant pieces of furniture. Careful observation and attention to detail are essential for identifying different styles and appreciating the unique characteristics of each individual piece.