10
Revere the Secretary.
It’s only fi tting to compose
a love letter to the
eternally chic writing desk.
Dearest Secretary,
In the 18th century, you, the
French secrétaire (also
known as a desk with a “fall
front”) gave way to the
distinctly British and American
secretary: a slant-front desk
with a chest of drawers below
and a bookcase up top. You
were courted across multiple
styles and eras—from the
simple to the ornate—and,
thanks to your vertical design
and narrow footprint, you’re
equally striking in a dining
room (think bar), living room
(think bookcase), and
bedroom (think home offi ce).
It’s no wonder you’re one of
the most coveted pieces in the
antique-furniture world.
Sincerely,
Country LivingPH
OT
OG
RA
PH
BY
PA
UL
CO
ST
EL
LO
,^ D
ES
IG
NE
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SH
AU
N^ S
MI
TH
.^