Secretary. Culture: American. Dimensions: 91 3/4 x 52 3/8 x 23 1/4 in. (233 x 133 x 59.1 cm). Maker: John and Joseph W. Meeks (active ca. 1836-59). Date: 1836-50.In the mid-nineteenth century traditional furniture forms were often updated with ornament referencing popular romantic styles. This cylinder-front secretary (or desk and bookcase) is embellished with Gothic Revival motifs such as pointed-arch windows and quatrefoils. Broad expanses of figured rosewood - which replaced mahogany as the preferred wood at the time - complete the decorative statement. Museum: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.