Description
An early-18th century English walnut secrétaire kneehole desk.
George I-period (1714-1727), circa 1720.
Of exceptional waxed honey colour and lovely old patina, with well-matched veneers.
With a quarter-veneered top. Six short drawers below a hinged fall revealing a writing section, all surrounding a central recessed cupboard. There is a small, shaped pull-out drawer fitted in the apron.
All finely inlaid with herringbone lines. Raised on its original bracket feet. Swan-neck handles probably fitted later in the 18th century. Locks and keys are mostly original. Walnut veneered and crossbanded sides.
Nb. Having a fitted secrétaire (secretaire) drawer distinguishes this antique walnut kneehole desk: relatively few desks of this period have this much sought-after and useful feature. Note the gently chamfered leading edges to the kneehole recess.
This compact and elegant early Georgian walnut desk comes ready-to-use, and will add great character to any home. Also referred to as a ‘vanity’ or ‘dressing table’.
Literature:
Ralph Edwards CBE FSA Shorter Dictionary of English Furniture (Hamlyn, Fourth Impression 1972) p. 556, ill. 8: ”A walnut kneehole desk dated, circa 1733”.
