PXL_20240329_231946755

Secrétaire Germany (Berlin), about 1798-99 Johann Andreas Beo (active late 1700s, master about 1799); clock movement by Christian Mollinger (1754-1826) Oak, spruce, and Scots pine veneered with mahogany, maple, Ceylon satinwood, rosewood, ebony, and holly; white marble; bronze; gilt-bronze mounts; enameled metal; glass The cabinetmaker Beo worked in Berlin and made pieces in the late Neoclassical style. This secrétaire, bought by King Frederick William III of Prussia (1770-1840), is designed in an architectural style, using classical elements such as columns, pilasters, and a cupola. Beo also specialized in incorporating complicated mechanical fittings into his work, and this piece originally housed a musical movement inside the base that played a tune when the clock struck the hour. The secréltaire’s middle panel lowers to reveal drawers and pigeonholes resembling interiors.