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This is probably the only book entirely devoted to the history of the writing desk, and provides both an accurate guide to identification and assessment for the furniture collector, and a fascinating insight into changing styles over four centuries. The excellent full-color illustrations throughout the book make identification easy, and a full glossary of relevant terms ensures that the reader can follow the vagaries of fashion in structure and decoration, from Biedermeier to Boulle. After a concise review of the development of design during each century (covering countries worldwide), the selection of pieces illustrated and discussed in detail is both representative and intriguing: from the 17th century, English scriptors, an American slope-front Bible box, a Dutch bureau-bookcase; from the Golden Age of desk design, the 18th century, a French Régence-style bureau plat, examples of Queen Anne and Georgian furniture, and of course, Chippendale and Sheraton pieces; 19th century examples of Regency secretaires, Gothic desk cabinets, Shaker desks; and from this century, Art Nouveau pieces from Gallé and Gaudi, Vienna Secession creations, and designs from Frank Lloyd Wright and Carlo Bugatti. With its authoritative and lively text, and images from museums, auction houses, private collections and antique dealers worldwide, An Encyclopedia of Desks is a unique combination of design history and practical reference for the collector. |
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