Of exceptional refinement and quality, this beautiful small serpentine chest carries all of the hallmarks of a superb maker and dates from c. 1770.
Dimensions
30.5 inches high, 35 inches wide at back, 35 inches wide at front, 21
inches deep max. The four graduated drawers with internal heights of
3.25, 4, 5 and 6 inches.
For metric please multiply by 2.5
Full Description
With a fantastic natural and well developed colour and deep patina throughout. The single board top a beautifully grained crotch of mahogany, outlined with ebony and box rope stringing which is repeated to the plinth. The brass handles and escutcheons original throughout - heavyweight and with soft wear - the drawers with a well defined deep serpentine shape. The upper drawer with solid mahogany slide which opens to reveal the original mahogany lined compartments. All of the drawers open smoothly and are oak lined and very fine dovetailed joints and with mahogany fronts of a particularly well matched and lively grain.
The feet all original to front and rear and with a good original panelled back - the chest very heavy despite its small size.
Almost certainly a London maker and in the manner of Thomas Chippendale, of a particularly small and well proportioned size.
The canted sides very finely inlaid with box stringing and tulipwood featherbanding.
Minor dings, marks and small veneer and cockbead replacements consistent with age and use.
From a family home of several generations and with some provenance.
A delightful and rare example not to be missed.
