Vienna circa 1800. Signed on the back. Rare and attractive secretaire with an unusual pyramid shape from the early Viennese Empire.

Vienna circa 1800. Signed on the back. Rare and attractive secretaire with an unusual pyramid shape from the early Viennese Empire, in practically perfect condition. Veneered in rare and precious yew wood, with a top veneered in Indian satinwood. Ebonized details and columns, gilded acanthus leaf motifs. Compartments with secret drawers concealed by the extractable central compartment, finely inlaid with ray motifs in walnut and maple feather. Due to the particular shape and also the rarely precious wood used (yew was used almost exclusively for inlays), it is a piece of museum significance. Yew is in fact a small tree from which it is difficult to obtain large surfaces. As the main veneer, this wood was generally used only for parade furniture. It is a magnificent expression of the sober elegance of the Viennese Empire. A similar piece is kept at the Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna. Height cm. 157, width cm.84.5, depth cm. 44 – 88 open. In the miniature at the bottom of the page, the project sketch of a similar pyramid secretaire by the great Viennese cabinetmaker Gottblieb August Pohle from February 1808 (property of the drawing collection of the Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna - already in the public domain and published for cultural purposes only). In practically perfect condition, in patina, with shellac finish applied with a pad using museum standard technique.    Observe the second photo on this page, which is a fantasy computer simulation where the work is imagined in a modern, high-end furnishing context. A "modernity", luminosity and abstraction emerge that are surprising for a work conceived two centuries ago, as well as a great touch of class and elegance to the whole. The high Viennese antique cabinetmaking, with its sober and minimal elegance, is closely linked to the lines of modern furniture. In accordance with the provisions of the New Code of Cultural Heritage, the selling company provides, at the time of sale, a detailed written photographic guarantee of originality and provenance of the works sold. The data with which the works are described and then contained in the written guarantees are express determinations resulting from accurate and documented technical/historical/artistic investigations, including expert assessments.   Learn about the very rare early Viennese Empire. Read the history of this elegant and sober style and learn to evaluate timeless Viennese masterpieces Click on the link below to read our original, concise practical guide, unique in Italy. Principessa Sissi ® antichità. High antique gallery appraiser Our gallery/museum of the early Viennese Empire, at the top in Europe and unique in Italy. Click on the link below Principessa Sissi ® antichità. High antique gallery in Udine Our antique secretaires. Click on the link below Principessa Sissi ® antichità. High antique gallery in Udine