Writing Desk

NameWriting Desk

CultureMexican or Spanish

Date18th century, staff

Possibly madeMexico, North America

(not assigned)México

Possibly madeSPAIN, Europe

MediumWood, gesso, paint, iron

DimensionsOther (Chest): 11 1/4 x 20 1/4 x 14 1/4 in. (28.575 x 51.435 x 36.195 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, IFAF Collection (FA.1997.22.1)

Object numberFA.1997.22.1

DescriptionCarved gessoed and painted drop-front chest with hinged lid, dovetailed joinery, decorative forged iron hardware, and ball feet. Inside, a stationary tray is faced with an applied carved arcade. Below are 4 drawers faced with applied panels of carved Moorish Arabesques. An asymmetrical floral spray of dark and light red buds with green foliage is painted on yellow ground on iner lid and dropleaf. On exterior traces of painted tendrils are visble through vestiges of overpainting.