bavarikon4UDescription
Produced in Antwerp in the workshop of the famous cabinetmaker Hendrik van Soest, this magnificent desk is a work commissioned by the Bavarian Elector Max Emanuel. This is revealed by his monogram on the back support and by his coat of arms crowned by the electoral hat on the top door of the hutch.
The decorative programme is also tailored to the client's requirements. Displays of weapons, of geniuses and of bound Turks populate the acanthus vines and ribbon ornaments. They refer to Max Emanuel's success as a commander in the Turkish wars. The coat of arms is framed by the ancient hero Hercules, symbol of virtue and strength, and by Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom. These two figures represent allegories of the electoral couple. Further depictions of princely virtues adorn the fronts of the numerous drawers.
There are many secrets hidden inside the desk. The writing surface is concealed under a sliding-back panel. The frame can also be folded down. Numerous drawers are stashed away inside. A truly secret compartment may be found in the parapet wall, which can only be opened from the inside by means of pressure applied to a spring.
The desk is an outstanding masterpiece with decoration in so-called Boulle technique. These are marquetries made of tortoiseshell with brass or tin, which are applied as veneer to the surface of the piece of furniture. There are two different variations of this technique, both of which can be found on this piece: in the form of the première partie with a light image (brass) in front of a dark background (tortie) and in that of the contrepartie with a dark image (tortie) in front of a light background.
Author
Cordula Mauß