Having a secretary does not seem given to everyone. It is however now possible to get one for less than £1,000, and for an indefinite term...

It was at the time of Louis the 14th that the secretaire is born. This is the Age of Enlightenment that it reached its peak. "brisé", "slope", "cylinder", "drawer" shape fits all purposes. Its great advantage over the desk is that it locks. It allows keeping its precious documents safe from prying eyes.

Of all the secretaries, the most famous is called "à abattant". It is the one that will be the most products until today. Its top panel falls horizontally to serve as a writing desk and give access to numerous drawers or lockers. Warning! This piece of furniture often has a bonus drawer, a "secret" as they say. This is where the "old" hid their gold. Own one, may well reveal some great surprises!

Like many antique furniture, secretaires do fall out of favor, except to when they are exceptional. It is indeed very unfair as the furniture is very functional and often small dimensions.
What you should know is that over 80% of the secretaries "à abattant" made in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries are now selling between £100 and £800. This furniture is very affordable...

If you want to buy one, we strongly recommend one of two examples that will be offered at auction on September 26th by Guignard Auctioneer in Peujard (33240). Each is estimated between €400 and €600, the first is Louis XVI style, the second Art Deco style.

More information: ICI

Images: (1) (2) courtesy of Sotheby's / (3) courtesy of Me. Guignard