Southern Federal Eagle inlaid & carved slant lid desk, wild cherrywood with hard pine secondary , probably western Maryland, ca. 1795-1802. The dovetailed case presents a molded and inlaid hinged slant lid centering an articulate polychrome eagle motif above a case of four graduated beaded and line inlaid drawers. The case is supported by flaring "French" feet joined by a deeply scrolled fan and diamond pattern inlaid apron. Situated within a line inlaid oval, the patriotic eagle grasps a branch and arrow cluster while the beak displays a banner of 16 stars. Tennessee became the 16th state in 1795 and Ohio was joined in 1803. The open lid reveals a classic Baltimore format cabinet centering an elaborate blocked and shell carved "secret" removable prospect of four drawers flanked by vertical letter drawers and banks of four short drawers all below a distinctive arch and scrolled arcade. The desk appears in an as- descended state, with original eagle motif oval brasses, rich old color, and a dry, crackled surface. W 39" H45" D20". Reference: "Crossroads of Culture: Eighteenth Century Furniture from Western Maryland." Sumpter Priddy & Joan Quinn. Chipstone, Beckerdite. 1997 Pg. 127. This extensive and illuminating study reveals many distinctive and previously unrecorded methods and mores regarding local furniture design in this former frontier region. While the study focuses on the period just prior to the advent of Federal era design, there are several details that carry over to the present desk. Most obvious and distinct is the arched shell carved motif that appears on the doors of several clocks and secretary cabinets. (Figs.22, 28). A similar modified shell my be seen on a tall chest, (Figs. 40, 41). The use of cherrywood with hard pine and the application of "Baltimore" pattern inlays, also serve to indicate this suggested place of origin. Please refer to this link for high-res image. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/0wgaw53mdzyv3iq/AABfakW2Pb8SiCrRCiK0Mgl4a?dl=0 CONDITION REPORT ; As found, un-restored condition with unresolved minor flaws: Lid hinges replaced resulting in splits & small patches. Crude old patch to bottom 4" of proper right rear foot facing. Two proper left cabinet arches, old replacements. Chipping to bottom of inlaid apron drop fan. Other scattered small inlay losses.