A fine and important Seymour Federal inlaid mahogany antique secretary desk and bookcase, Boston, circa 1815

This attractive Federal antique secretary desk exhibits the first rate proportions, top quality wood selections and fine construction of the elite cabinet shop of John and Thomas Seymour. The desk include several construction features common to other Seymour case pieces, including the very specific ebony inlaid brackets that join the legs and apron.
The flat top secretary section has a flared molding above a cross-banded frieze and a pair of glazed cabinet doors. The arched glazed windows have molded mullions and figured mahogany panels at the base with contrasting oval inlays. These doors open to a fitted interior of drawers and cubbies with shaped valances. This cabinet rests above a fold-over writing desk with a vibrantly inlaid mahogany lid and a case with three drawers
The drawers are neatly decorated with vibrant cross-banding, pattern inlay and richly grained book-matched mahogany panels. The drawers have period oval brass pulls and shield-form ebony keyhole escutcheons. The drawers are flanked with rounded mahogany plinths and a rosewood cross banded bottom edge. The legs transition from the case on the front and sides, with a distinctive “C” scroll bracket with an arched triangular ebony infield. The legs terminate with turned and reeded shafts.

Dimensions

Width: 40 1/2"; Depth: 19"; Height: 52”