Secretary Bookcase
Artist
Anthony Gabriel Quervelle
(French, 1789 - 1856)
Date1825-1835
MediumMahogany, eastern white pine, basswood, yellow-poplar, bird's eye maple, glass, brass, and gilded gesso
DimensionsOverall: 102 1/4 x 50 3/4 x 23 5/8in. (259.7 x 128.9 x 60cm)
ClassificationsFURNISHINGS
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Terms
Object number60.257
On View
On viewCollections
Copyright<a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/"><img alt="Creative Commons License" style="border-width:0" src="https://i.creativecommons.org/l/by-nc/4.0/80x15.png" /></a><br />This work is licensed under a <a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/">Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License</a>.
Label TextThe imposing dimensions, rich surface ornamentation, the maker's fine crafting of this secretary bookcase reflect the influence of French taste and style on Philadelphia cabinetmakers and their patrons during the late classical period of the 1830s. Anthony Quervelle, maker of this example, arrived in Philadelphia from France about 1817 and enjoyed a long and prosperous career as one of the city's leading cabinetmakers.
The secretary bookcase exhibits characteristics associated with the Empire style-massive architectural proportions and overall form; carved, hairy paw feet; and veneered surfaces. One of the distinguishing characteristics of Quervelle's work (seen here on the base of the secretary bookcase and also in the sketch) is the integration of the fan shape, comprising multiple convex elements veneered with richly grained mahogany, into the design.
Sketch, attributed to the workshop of Anthony Quervelle, ca. 1820-35.
Pen, pencil, and ink on laid paper. Collection of Philadelphia Museum of Art.
