This is my Spanish Bargueño (also known as a Vargueño.) It was a portable desk with a fall-front. The top half is a chest which sits on an elaborate base. It was designed for easy transport.
The front of the Vargueño has red velvet detail behind iron decorative elements.


The two top and two bottom sides twist to lock the drop front securely.

The iron lock with orginal key to keep the papers inside safe.

Detail from the base of the Vargueño

Detail of a scrolled foot on the base.

The two gobelin faces pull out to provide support for when the desk front is dropped open.

The face on the right has horns and an extended tongue.

The face on the left also has horns and large, sharp, teeth.

When the desk is open, it is interesting to note that the interior is more elaborate than the exterior.

Detail of the interior - which is inlaid with ivory and has iron drawer pulls in the shapes of sea shells.

Detail of an interior cabinet and the hinge of the open desk.

Detail of the interior drawers with tiny columns.

I have opened a few of the drawers and cabinets.

Detail of one of the iron side hinges. There is one on either side of the Vargueño so that servants could easily carry the chest from location to location.

Detail of the desk writing surface.

Detail of the top and side of the Vargueño.

The top of the Vargueño where the lock is, is held in place by three iron bolts in the shapes of clovers.

This is the key of the Vargueño - which the owner would have kept with him to keep the contents of his desk safe and sound.