A South Tyrolean writing desk with fine, carved decoration, 1st half of the 16th centuryThe rectangular bureau made of sturdy walnut, the lid slightly sloping for use as a writing surface. A border of vine and ivy tendrils in low relief on a stippled background carved around the outer edges. The original iron lock with a rectangular iron cover plate, the hasp and key are missing. The back part of the top hinged separately, below which four pigeonholes. Two lateral compartments in the interior, a total of eight drawers for writing materials and stationery concealed at the back and sides. Twelve scenes from the life of Christ in the lid, the interior of the bureau with lavish, decorative tendrils, animated with figures. Dimensions 24 x 50 x 67 cm.Provenance: From a South German countial estateCondition: II -