Webberley Antiques

Description

A most impressive and beautiful 17th Century solid oak chest of drawers of unusually large proportions and in complete and original condition with original brasses, all original timbers, and original finish.

Peg jointed throughout, the ends of the pegs extending and visible internally (these can be seen when the drawers are removed on the inner faces of the carcase). The drawers are all oak lined and in fine condition with original carpenters marks to the drawer sides. These show that the chest was made by a craftsman and also may indicate an earlier date. I consider the chest is no later than 1680 and could be as early as 1630. The oversailing planked top is original and pegged and is underscored by applied hand carved oak mouldings to give a castellated appearance.

First phase construction throughout with rebated side runners to the drawers and nailed up bottoms and backs. The chest made entirely in oak including back boards and with hand cast solid gilt brass split tail handles with open flower back plates and hand turned threads. Soft wear and age to these and each handle with slight natural variations. No evidence of earlier handles, no evidence of earlier cotter pin fixings.

The sides each with four fielded panels set in channel carved and shaped frames and the whole on original stile feet.

A stunning example and strongly recommended. Very well developed patina and superb rich colour and all in a rarely found original and fine condition. No significant losses or other issues and no worm. Some minor dings and bruises consistent with age and use but the oak is as hard as iron and the chest is extremely heavy. Robust and offering a huge amount of space, the chest is practical for daily use.

A fabulous early English oak chest, from a private residence and with some provenance.


Dimensions are:

55.5 inches wide, 28.5 inches deep and 44.5 inches high.

All drawers are 7.5 inches deep and 21.75 inches wide.

For metric please multiply by 2.5



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