DESK AND BOOKCASE. 3rd quarter 18th century, Connecticut. In three parts; the upper case with full bonnet, swan's neck pediment with three flame and urn finials. Fitted at the rear of the center crest is a removable urn shaped backboard. Additionally, the case is fitted with a pair of arched, raised panel doors opening to an interior fitted with three rows of vertical stationery compartments. The lower case fitted with a hinged sloping lid opening on lopers and fitted with a valanced interior of vertical cubbyholes above a row of short drawers centering a sunburst prospect door panel flanked by engaged turned half columns, each with secret vertical drawers accessed from the rear of the compartment. Additionally fitted with a small valanced secret drawer above the prospect door in which is a label of family ownership. All above four long molded graduated long drawers. The desk is fitted to a molded base frame raised on short cabriole legs terminating in pad feet. The apron with stylish well executed wave molding. The secretary desk is comprised of several details related to the craftsmanship of Connecticut Valley furniture and is made up of cherry, white eastern pine, and tulip poplar. The Chippendale brasses are of the period, but not original to the piece. PROVENANCE: The name of a previous owner on a label within a drawer behind the prospect door of "Nelson A. Shepard, signed Harriet Shepard Aug-2-1923". SIZE: 92" h x 41" w x 22 1/2" d. NOTE: for similar examples of this fine secretary bookcase, see Kugelman, "Connecticut Valley Furniture". CONDITION: overall good condition with early surface. Finial flames regilt. Removable bonnet backboard has been raised to its former original height. Some small restoration to back of bonnet, some interior valances, some interior drawer bottoms replaced. One side scrolled wavy molding on frame is an old replacement. (05-423/TG). $12,500-17,500.