Bargueno Toledano - Carved Antique Secretaire Desk

A masterpiece of Spanish craftsmanship, the Bargueño Toledano is a stunning example of 16th- to 18th-century furniture design originating from the historic city of Toledo. This antique secrétaire desk is as functional as it is beautiful, traditionally used by nobility and scholars for correspondence and safekeeping of documents.  Handcrafted from rich walnut wood, the desk features intricate ironwork, hand-forged lock mechanisms, and hand-carved decorative inlays that reflect the Mudéjar and Renaissance influences of its era. The front opens to reveal a meticulously compartmentalized interior—tiny drawers, pigeonholes, and hidden chambers—designed to organize writing materials and secret items. The Bargueño is both a decorative showpiece and a practical writing desk.  Whether used as a functional work of art or a collector’s statement piece, the Bargueño Toledano remains a timeless symbol of elegance, history, and Old World artistry.

Measures 13" d x 37.5" w x 76"h

Condition:  There are knicks to the finish as pictured and signs of wear.  This is an antique and therefore signs of wear and tear are present and expected.  Some restoration may be beneficial.  See pictures for details.

This piece requires in home delivery.  Contact us for a shipping and delivery quote prior to purchase.

History of the Bargueno Toledano

The classic Bargueno Toledano was first created in the fifteenth century by the artisans of Toledo, Spain, the birthplace of the most noted artisans of that time.  Some of the most noted artisanal works were created in wood carvings, in the form of shields.  During the following generations, Toledan artisans have been making this type of furniture piece, known as the Bargueno.  In these pieces they have carved out decorations and events that took place during the time they were created making the Bargueno an artisanal jewel.  They have since incorporated bronzes , ivory, polishes and polychrome in their technique to obtain a truly artistic masterpiece.

The Martin family has maintained these traditions in woodwork since 1836, though recently retired.  For many generations the family has continued making these works, mainly with wood.  They have dedicated their time to making reproductions of the Barguenos in different styles and of different periods of time in much the same way that their ancestors did many years ago.  These Bargueno reproductions are authentic reproductions of the original works that today are in many museums and private collections.