Auckland secretaire chest. In Victorian times rimu was valued highly as a decorative timber, typified by its use in this Auckland chest as the feature timber, with kauri as the secondary timber used for unseen construction elements. This tall and handsome chest was clearly intended to impress with its stature and strong well-proportioned lines. Belying the restrained exterior however the top long drawer opens to reveal an exquisitely crafted secretaire with fitted drawers and compartments. This chest of excellent quality is an outstanding example of the cabinetmakers skills and designs of the period. Height 142 cm. Width 124 cm