A fine George III period chest of a desirable small proportion

English, c. 1770

The moulded and crossbanded top over the green baize-lined brushing slide, above the four graduated oak lined cockbeaded drawers, largely retaining the original formerly gilt brass swan-neck handles and locks, raised on four original shaped bracket feet. Veneered in well-figured mahogany. The chest is closely related to a George Hepplewhite's design, illustrated in his 'The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsterer's Guide', 1788, pl. 75.

Remarkably original condition, outstanding mellow honey colour, striking grain and gentle patina; minor historic repairs (a fraction of one leg is replaced), minor splits to the sides, the lower drawer has period replacement handles.

For a similar example see Christie's, Important English Furniture, 15 April 1999, lot 115.