A Superlative Inlaid Mahogany Tambour Desk, Probably Massachusetts, c.1810, (ex MFA, Boston)

This tambour desk is in exceptionally fine condition down to its original brasses and wonderful inlaid embellishments.   The entire piece retains an old historic surface, which has been waxed through the years.   

This piece is illustrated on a full page in Randall’s American Furniture in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, p.82, ill.61.  It was deaccessioned with a number of items; a process happening in several major museums as they thin out their collections due to space/storage issues.  

The prospect door has magnificent color and depth.  Beyond this door, the valances over the pidgeon holes are uniquely executed.  Of note, are the beautiful shell and tiger maple inlays on the legs flanking the drawers, which are line inlaid all below the upper section which has stylized columns flanking the tambour doors.  This is a fine piece worthy of any collection with an illustrated museum provenance.  Also of interest is an historic shipping label we found in the back.  

Height: 47 3/4 in.  Width: 38 1/4 in.  Depth: 20 1/2 in.

sw01677 - SOLD