A North Italian Biedermeier bureau with integrated safe, circa 1840

A North Italian Biedermeier bureau with integrated safe, circa 1840The upright rectangular writing desk veneered in walnut, mounted on four ball feet. Rounded edges with turned pillars placed in front, the upper edge with an overhanging cornice. Two lockable drawers in the lower section, above which one imitation drawer. The folding lid can be locked (with three latches!), the inside with a leather writing surface. An additional drawer above it, this not lockable. The inside with a central safe, flanked by six drawers on each side and an open compartment at the top. The elaborately constructed safe is larger than the visible area of approx. 37 x 38 cm, extending downwards into the space behind the imitation drawer. The door hinged on the right with a further imitation hinge. Locked keyhole cover with insert mechanism. Below which, two keyholes and an additional insertion aperture. Complex opening mechanism, instructions are required to carry out the repeated movements of both keys in a specific sequence (instructions enclosed). A wooden device in the interior of the safe with shelves and two small drawers. Dimensions 153 x 99 x 48 cm.Condition: II +