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18th Century Mahogany Secretaire Bookcase China Cabinet

About the Item

A fine English mid-18th century mahogany secretaire / secretary / bookcase / china cabinet. Of lovely, deep, rich color, patina and quality. George III-period, circa 1760. The bold, detachable, swan-neck pediment carved with 'Gothic' open fretwork, spiral rosettes and a dentil cornice. The pediment is centred by a small platform below which is a fluted panel. The bookcase / china cabinet section with two, thirteen-pane glazed doors, with three original adjustable shelves with applied beadings for the display of china etc. The base with a pull-out writing section fitted with small drawers, two of which have secret releases. These secret drawers are faced with blind-fret 'Gothic' tracery, and centred by a carved, shaped arch. The base with three cock-beaded drawers, and raised on its original bracket feet which are faced with blind fret. This fine, sophisticated and well-proportioned example of a secretaire / secretary / cabinet / desk / bookcase is remarkable for having survived in its original state including all swan-neck handles and locks. Of superb quality, color, patination, and well figured throughout. With mahogany drawer linings: further confirmation of its superlative quality. Measures: 42" wide (107 cm) 23" deep 58.5 cm) 95" high (241 cm) - without cartouche. A related antique bureau cabinet, formerly with Messrs. Hotspur, London, was sold at Christies, 'Important English Furniture', 6th July 2000, lot 150. A similar Georgian secretaire bookcase, formerly with French & Co. New York, is illustrated in F. Lewis Hinckley, 'Metropolitan Furniture of the Georgian years' (1988) p. 138, illustr. 212. May be used as a chic china cabinet, bookcase, for storage, and/ or as a desk.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 94 in (238.76 cm)Width: 42 in (106.68 cm)Depth: 23 in (58.42 cm)
  • Style:
    George III (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1740-1749
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1740
  • Condition:
    Repaired: Minor repairs entirely commensurate with age, namely a few veneers historically re-attached. In superb condition overall. Wear consistent with age and use. Insignificant repairs entirely commensurate with its age, i.e. a few veneers re-attached. In outstanding condition throughout.
  • Seller Location:
    Lymington, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BHA9621stDibs: LU4081127263322

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