18th Century Red Walnut Linen Press

Photos
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Description

A magnificent low countries linen press made between 1730 and 1750 and in exemplary original condition. Made from the highest quality timbers, the press is fully mortised and pegged jointed - no nails, screws or later timbers. Solid walnut carcase with full oak linings to the drawers and original oak shelves throughout.

The back panels are oak also. All of the locks, escutcheons and brass handles are original and in superb condition. The handles with hand engraved decoration. There is a working key.
The pediment with carved cartouche and geometric coved and returned top. The solid walnut doors have fielded panels with shaped frames and these open and close smoothly on original heavy brass hinges. The oak shelves are original. Beneath the central shelf are two walnut fronted oak drawers which slide easily and are very solid and robust. There are three original oak and walnut inner drawers with original handles and, again, beautifully fitted. To the base there are two short over two long drawers, each with serpentine shaped fronts. On opening the second drawer and sliding your hand under the dustboard you can locate two sliding wooden tenons - one on either side. These release secret doors at the flanks of the base section. Behind each secret door are four graduated finely crafted oak lined drawers with walnut offset bow fronts and original brass button handles.

Cabinet makers were often required to create secret storage compartments in case furniture. This is a bespoke piece and the maker has devised a most ingenious mechanism - the doors to the knees fitting so well that there is no sign that the secret drawers are there. The workmanship in this piece is of the highest quality. The red walnut is of the finest grade, a tight grained figured timber, the whole having a superb colour and patina. The condition of the piece is immaculate with no damage, woodworm, wobbles, loose joints and no significant dings or marks.

The cost of shipping is less than you might expect because of the ability to dismantle the upper section.

Many additional photographs available on request.
DateEarly 18th Century : Early 18th Century 1710-1740 Dimensions 97 inches high but requiring a ceiling height of at least 99 inches (to allow fitting of pediment which has long tenon pegs) Base is 36.5 inches high. Max width is 82 inches and maximum depth at feet is 27 inches deep. The upper section dismantles into doors, pediment, side panels and back boarding. The base section is solid and does not dismantle but drawers can be removed to reduce weight for lifting/transporting. ConditionExceptionally fine original condition Codeas216a042 Price SOLD £6250.00 StatusSold SellerWebberley Antiques Telephone01424 838557Non UK callers :+44 1424 838557 Emailwebberley@btconnect.com

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