Lot 191
  • 191

A George III rosewood banded yew wood secrétaire chest, circa 1770

Estimate
5,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

  • Rosewood, yew
  • 118cm. high, 83cm wide, 41cm. deep; 3ft. 10 1/2in, 2ft. 8 3/4in. 1ft. 4in.
the fall-front opening to an interior fitted with drawers and pigeon holes, with a green tooled-leather writing surface; fitted with three long and two short drawers on splay bracket feet; mounts and handles later

Condition

In overall good restored condition. The back left leg has been repaired, and has a slightly unsteady stance. There is an age crack to the right of the front right leg. The leather in the concealed secretaire worn across the fold. With two keys. Ready to place with minor old marks and scratches consistent with age.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

The construction and style of the present chest suggests that it was made by an émigré craftsman working around 1770, possibly with a later addition in the early 19th century of a brass gallery. The form of the chest, together with choice and use of veneers relates to a bureau plat supplied to Colonel Howard of Levens hall, Cumbria and once thought to be by Gillows (see Susan Stuart, Gillows of Lancaster and London, vol. I, 2008, p. 288, pl. 305).