SOLD - A Swedish Gustavian style painted wood drop-front secretary from the 19th century, with carved dentil molding, multiple inner drawers and three long graduated drawers. Created in Sweden during the 19th century, this painted secretary showcases the stylistic characteristics of the Gustavian era. The piece features a rectangular top with canted corners in the front, sitting above a carved dentil molding. The upper section is made of a drop front desk with molded accents, opening to reveal multiple inner drawers surrounding a central door flanked with Solomonic semi-columns and trilobe arches. The lower section presents three graduated drawers with molded cartouches, fitted with Classical brass hardware. The ensemble is flanked with canted side posts and is raised on short tapered feet. The secretary is painted in a soft color typical of the Swedish taste for light palettes aiming at brightening the rooms during the long and dark Scandinavian winters.
The Gustavian style takes its roots in the Louis XVI era. Swedish King Gustav III resided in 1771 in Paris, at the beginning stages of the Louis XVI style. There, he was inspired by French art and fashion. With that in his luggage, he had a strong desire to introduce something similar in Sweden. The country had fine craftsmen with high quality craftsmanship, who produced a simple style with harmonious aesthetics. The Gustavian style was born and has been in vogue ever since. It is incredibly popular, especially in England but also in France and in the USA. Price and age are of course inextricably linked, the older and rarer, the higher the price!
With its clean lines and convenient features, this Swedish Gustavian style painted chest from the 19th century will make for a wonderful addition to any home, placed in a living room or study!
Place of Origin: Sweden
Period: 19th Century
Dimensions: 44.25"W x 21.5"D x 49.75"H
Inventory Number: XX301
Price: $6,500