Description
A classic Chippendale-period secretaire breakfront library bookcase in well-figured mahogany. Early George III, circa 1760. Of excellent colour, patina, and condition throughout.
This fine and well-proportioned bookcase is composed of six sections that all separate for ease of transport.
The top section, with adjustable shelving and detachable cornice, is enclosed by four doors with eighteenth-century thirteen-pane astragal glazing bars. The base has a well-fitted secretaire drawer now with a fine quality green leather gilt-tooled writing surface, over a central cupboard offering ample storage space. Flanked by ten graduated drawers. The whole is raised on a plinth base.
In superb condition ready for your library, drawing/ sitting room or dining room. Over our last 67 years trading we have supplied a good number of similar bookcases (but few of this superlative quality) and can add that these bookcases also look good back-lit, for example displaying a dinner service or porcelain etc.
References:
Ralph Edwards CBE FSA, Shorter Dictionary of English Furniture, Fourth edition 1972, ill. 26, p 59. (Bearing label for Morgan and Saunders.) Note the secretaire drawer.
Thomas Chippendale, The Gentleman and Cabinet-maker’s Director, 1st edition, 1754, pl. CVI.
Christopher Gilbert, The Life & Work of Thomas Chippendale, 1978.
For comparison: Sold Bonhams London, 2008 for £84,000 inc premium, A George III mahogany breakfront library bookcase in the manner of Thomas Chippendale.
Further reading:
National Trust:
