Attributed to John Shaw (American (Annapolis, Maryland), circa 1795. Fine and rare Federal inlaid and figured mahogany wood secretary bookcase in thee parts. Top portion with removable molded swan's neck crest with round inlaid satinwood terminals and pierced fretwork, center with check and line inlaid urn form finial on rectangular plinth above lancet arce frieze. Middle bookcase section with two glazed doors that open to reveal shelved space within. Lower section with checkered inlay work surrounding border and around oval accent on slanted top that drops and rests on side stretchers to reveal storage compartments and drawers within. Writing secretary desk surface above four graduated pull out drawers with checkered inlaid border. Secretary raised on splayed bracket feet. Height 100", width 42", depth 21.5". Note: John Shaw was born in Scotland in 1745 and later immigrated to the New World around 1763. At this time, Annapolis was the political and social hub of Maryland which was experiencing a more prosperous time after the French and Indian War. Need for strong architectural and woodworking services where present resulting in a number of craftsmen moving to the area. In 1770, Shaw appears in court records as registering as a cabinetmaker. Shaw's work is noted for his attention to detail, use of highly figured veneers, and use of pierced fretwork pediments--all of which are present in this significant secretary. Provenance: Sotheby's New York: Important Americana, June 20, 1996 as Lot 462 whereby acquired by Mrs. Dorothy Edwards, Atlanta, Georgia.

Starting from the top of the piece, the fretwork has numerous repairs to breaks and wear to the veneer and inlay work commensurate with age, not highly noticeable or distracting. Crest affixed to top with later hardware. Ebonized lappet repair on left side of molding. Hinged doors with single glass pane with applied mullions on each side. Left glass pane with damage in upper right corner. Left hinged door with loose applied mullion on front, most apparent on left side by jamb. Shelves in interior with light scratches commensurate with age and light use. Lower slant top desk portion with water rings and evidence of moisture on top. Hinged slant top with later hinges and three similarly sized and shaped wood repairs (one at each later hinge and center). Hinges different size than originals with wood filler and separation due to shrinkage and difference in size of hardware. Some locks may be later as some have wood filler on sides. Missing lock from bottom drawer. Interior storage under slant top with repair to arched detail on niches and later restoration to drawer interiors. Stopper blocks on drawers later. Back left ogee foot a later restoration.