THIS ITEM HAS BEEN SOLD
A rare and unusual George III English Oak dresser base.
The two plank cross-banded and moulded top above an entirely cross-banded base having seven drawers with brass swan neck handles, enclosing two central panelled doors. When opened revealing a fitted interior of eight spice drawers around an arched recess and a central fruitwood shelf. Resting on the original ogee shaped bracket feet.
The overall colour and patination to this dresser are exceptional, something only approximately 250 years can achieve.
Note: One of the interior spice drawers was repaired mid 20th Century when around 200 years old. The proud cabinet maker signed his workmanship in pencil ‘Repaired by R.J.Hughes, Anglesey 11/11/49. Reminds me of when a teenage apprentice as a french polisher, when I would be putting a Victorian sideboard I had just finished restoring back together, I would always sign my name and date my work behind the carvings, before re-screwing to the backboard. I have, like R.J.Huges, always taken a lot of pride in my work.
Having been in the antique trade for 40 years, I have never seen a dresser quite the same. The interior fitted with a spice pantry is unusual, especially with the size of the drawers, as teas and spices were so expensive. The original Georgian steel key safely locked all away from the household staff.
Moving homes and changing furnishings has enabled me to release several rare and unusual pieces onto the market. Last week I sold the best early 17th Century English oak coffer/boarded chest in the Southern Hemisphere, as soon as offered.
It is hard parting with these beautiful rare pieces, however, I personally know they are truly going to other beautiful homes and will be enjoyed and appreciated as we have over the years.
C. 1780
H: 82 cm W: 206 cm D:54cm