Exploring the Symbolism of the Desk

Art, Literature, Astronomy, Surveying, and Leadership

Carved by Luigi Frullini in Florence around1870, this monumental Renaissance Revival secretary is richly ornamented with with flowers, foliage, classical figures, and symbolic imagery.

The central writing panel depicts four doves in flight amid delicately carved flowers and insects, framed by a band of foliage. Above, a clock is crowed by a dove with outstretched wings and surrounded by branches of oak and laurel.surmounts a dial face above the secretary, about which are delicately carved branches of oak and laurel.

Two portraite busts represent the Italian masters Dante, symbolizing literature, and Raphael, symbolizing art. Between them, a carved frieze of cherubs in a woodland setting illustrate the four themes that recur throughout the secretary: art, literature, astronomy, and surveying.

Additional carved panels reinforce these themes. Brushes and a palette represent art; parchment and quills represent literature; a telescope and globe represent astronomy and surveying. Above, the clock face incorporates a draftsman’s square, compass, ruler, and hourglass.

At the summit, the imagery shifts toward leadership and achievement. A dove alights above the clock, framed by gracefully arching branches of laurel and oak — traditional emblems of honor, victory, strength, and accomplishment.