catalog text
A VERY FINE GEORGE III MAHOGANY SECRETAIRE WITH A GLAZED BOOKSHELF ABOVE A CHEST OF DRAWERS
England, circa 1780 | Three drawers signed "William Jones"
Item # 307XNK13S
Of exceedingly good quality, this fine George III secretaire features a molded cornice projecting over glazed doors, each composed of sixteen individual panes of glass divided by intricately reeded astragal moldings. These open to reveal an adjustably shelved interior with later silk lining. The gap between the door is sealed with an original molded brass applique. The lower chest features what appears to be five graduated drawers, the upper two a faux composition disguising the "butler's desk" hidden within.
This withdraws and the drawer front drops down on oversized curved brass supports to reveal a gilt-tooled leather writing surface backed by a series of six pigeon-hole letter slots over a pair of horizontal drawers over an open paper storage space, this arrangement flanked on either side by four small drawers. Three drawers are signed on their undersides "William Jones" in graphite. The bottom right drawer also has a hidden compartment in it.
The surfaces throughout are incredibly vibrant, showcasing stellar timber selections under an old French polish with later layers of waxes that have built up to create a marvelous silky glowing patina over the decades. A very fine statement piece.
Measurements: 86 1/2" H x 21" D x 49" W; writing space is 16 1/2" D and sits 30" over the ground with a width of 41 1/8"
Condition Report:
Old refinish preserving much of the underlying patina while leaving the surface refreshed and vibrant, probably in the last 50 years. Excellent color preservation throughout. Left side of the upper case has a small piece of missing veneer where the bottom touches the molding of the top. Right side of upper case with a few veneer chips along back edge and a few veneer patches. Minor dings, scuffs and abrasions throughout as expected. Several panes of glass replaced. Silk lining of the bookcase is not original and presents with minor discolorations/dirtiness/flaws. Structure beneath the two horizontal drawers in the desk portion (beneath the six pigeon holes) with added support beneath to strengthen the structure. Thin strip added between backboards to accomodate for shrinkage.