Drop-front secretary (secrétaire à abattant or secrétaire en armoire) 1786 - 1787

This French *secrétaire à abattant*, or drop-front secretary, was made by the cabinetmaker Guillaume Benneman between 1786 and 1787. The piece is made of mahogany and is decorated with marquetry, ormolu mounts, and gilded bronze figures. The secrétaire à abattant was a popular style of furniture in the late 18th century, and it was often used as a writing desk or a small library. This example is a fine example of the style, with its elegant proportions and intricate decoration. It is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.