Description
A fine English George I-period burr (burl) walnut secretaire cabinet attributed to Old & Ody.
Early-18th century, ca 1720.
The top section separates from the base and opens to reveal numerous fitted drawers, behind doors with original bevelled arched mirror plates.
The base contains a fall-front fitted secretaire with small drawers, two of which have secret drawers. Engraved mounts are contemporary if not original. All locks and cross-grained mouldings are original.
Beautiful deep rich colour throughout, with superb matched burr veneers within herringbone lines.
Bun feet are original. Lined throughout in best-quality English oak.
The well patinated, green, gilt-tooled liner in the writing surface appears original. In excellent condition overall.
Very much in the style of John Old & William Ody.
One of the most original early-18th century pieces of English walnut cabinet furniture we have been able to offer during the last 67 years.
Provenance: David Tron, 275 King’s Road, London, SW3.
Literature:
C. Gilbert, ‘A Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture 1700-1840’ (1986) fig. 600.
Further reading:
Old, William & Ody, John (1717-1733) The Furniture History Society – British and Irish Furniture Makers Online.
References:
National Trust Collections:
William Old & John Ody, St. Pauls Church Yard, London (c.1723-38) – vis a cabinet on chest, Montacute House, Somerset, England.
Links:
Old, William & Ody, John (1717-1733) | BIFMO
https://bifmo.history.ac.uk/entry/old-william-ody-john-1723-38
Results, Maker: “William Old & John Ody, St. Pauls …
www.nationaltrustcollections.org.uk/results?Maker=William+Old+&+John
