Description
A remarkable English Queen Anne period burr walnut tallboy, ca 1710.
From a private Scottish estate. This provenance adds further weight to its Masonic association.
Walnut tallboys, when of this architectural form and proportions, have always been rare and much sought after. This one survives in remarkably original state with well-matched figured walnut veneers of very good colour, both to the drawer fronts and sides.
Locks, mounts and feet are original.
This actual chest is well documented in Percy Macquoid, A History Of English Furniture, Vol. 1 – The Age of Oak and The Age of Walnut (1905). ”Fig. 149 is an early example, surmounted by the curved and broken pediment with finials that began in William’s reign, although the chamfered and channelled edges, the original open lock and handle-plates, distinctly point to about the date 1710. The centre of the semi-circular frieze is inlaid with a cross and square in dark wood on a shield of lighter ground; the face of the piece is veneered in burr walnut, each drawer being bordered with a cross-banding of the same wood.’’ P. 165, fig. 149. Formerly the property of S.H.S. Lofthouse Esq.
Excellent colour, patina and condition throughout, and of convenient size.
The majority of these tall antique chests were destined for dressing rooms, but when they are of this quality they will grace any drawing room.
Broad, canted and fluted angles to the top and base are always an indication of quality.
Note the inlaid cartouche centred in the arched pediment, believed to be Masonic.
Nb. Christies, London, sold a much inferior walnut tallboy ca 1710, on 22nd January 2009, for £17,500.
