Why You’ll Love It
This exceptional Georgian-style secretary bookcase, handcrafted by British artisan Alan Barnes of Tarbena Miniatures, showcases remarkable period detailing and functional craftsmanship. Drawing upon his background in antique restoration, Barnes has recreated an elegant 18th-century bureau bookcase with a beautifully aged wood finish. The upper cabinet features hinged glass doors with Gothic pointed-arch fretwork, opening to reveal four shelves, which are filled with vertical wooden inserts that have been carved and hand painted to look like rows of colorful miniature leather books. A carved swan-neck pediment crowns the piece, while the lower section features a drop-front writing desk with slide out wooden supports and a green writing surface, pigeonholes, interior compartments, and tiny working drawers. Four graduated exterior drawers are fitted with delicate brass pulls. The richly figured, walnut wood writing flap completes this extraordinary example of miniature cabinetmaking. Signed and dated 2013 on the reverse.
Perfect for
An elegant addition to Georgian or 18th-century English dollhouse interiors, particularly traditional libraries, gentleman’s studies, and writing rooms. Ideal for English country houses, grand manor settings, and collections of fine artisan miniature furniture.
Details
Materials: Wood & glass
Scale & Size: 1:12 scale; 8” tall × 3 ½” wide × 2” deep
Condition: Excellent vintage condition
Artist: Alan Barnes of Tarbena Miniatures (UK)
Collection: Madame 'Y' of Japan
Please Note: Listing includes the secretary bookcase and shelf inserts shaped as rows of miniature books only. Any additional furnishings or staging accessories shown in photographs or videos are not included.
A Note About Value
Every miniature we offer has been carefully evaluated for its craftsmanship, rarity, condition, provenance, and collectibility. Many of the artisan pieces we sell are one-of-a-kind works that may never appear on the market again. While original retail prices provide an interesting historical reference, they rarely reflect decades of appreciation, the artist's legacy, or the scarcity of surviving examples.
Our pricing reflects the miniature's place within today's collector market and the years we've spent studying the artists, histories, and values that make these tiny works of art so special.
A Commitment to Research
Every miniature has a story, and uncovering it is one of our greatest passions. We carefully research each piece, but unsigned or illegible works can remain mysteries. If you can identify an artist or provide additional information, we'd be delighted to hear from you and will gladly update the listing to preserve their legacy.
