The Tigrane Compendium
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Restored Tiger Oak Fall-Front Secretary Desk with Barley Twist Legs
An heirloom of quiet presence and archival character, The Tigrane Compendium embodies the spirit of a well-kept record, an intimate history held in wood. Crafted in richly grained tiger oak, this fall-front secretary desk carries the rhythm of correspondence, ledger work, and long-forgotten letters.
The desk’s fall-front panel lowers to reveal a fitted interior with vertical dividers and petite drawers, inviting a return to the analog rituals of writing, sorting, and reflection. Below, two full-length drawers with dovetail joinery offer practical storage, while the facade is framed by carved embellishments that extend the movement of the wood grain.
Restoration was approached with restraint and respect for the original craftsmanship. The surface was gently cleaned, and select scratches on the front were sanded down to balance preservation with presentation. Original lock hardware was missing in places; replacements were added along with new lock holes to complete the set. New drawer hardware was selected to complement the style and era of the piece. Several portions of the carved border had been lost to time, and new sections were hand-carved with care to echo the original pattern, completing the decorative framing along the drawers. The drawer mechanisms were also adjusted and repaired to ensure smooth, functional use.
The piece is anchored by barley twist legs, a sculptural homage to English design, joined by a stretcher base that lends both visual and structural balance. A new stain was applied to unify the overall tone and enhance the depth of the tiger oak, allowing its luminous grain to remain the central voice without overpowering the character of age.
Originally found in Southern California, The Tigrane Compendium offers more than utility. It is a study in continuity, where memory, craftsmanship, and design quietly endure.
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21 7/8” W x 24” D x 38 7/8” H x 17 1/2”
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