George I bureau bookcase

POA

This is a fine and rare example of a desk and bookcase cabinet, it combines a restrained but highly original design with exemplary fine materials and cabinet making.

The crisp cavetto cornice has a shallow arch with horizonal wings, and surmounted with raised blocks which are three later replaced solid turned walnut urns. Three adjustable interior shelves, above three low drawers. The centre of the top section of the cornice has an inverted and upward feature. This adds greatly to the work and expense involved.

Having a pair of bevelled edge mirrored doors it has two discreet candle slides, these were placed for the candles so the light would reflect into the mirrors for illuminating the room when lit. The design with the domed section follows a relatively common classical form; the architect James Gibbs in 1728 had this similar design for doorcases, fireplaces, and windows. The interior of the desk has an understated and elegant bank of ten oak lined drawers all beautifully made and hardly used, all retaining the original gilt-brass incised knob handles.

A collection of five solid oak hidden secret drawers. The quartered burr walnut veneered fall has double feather banding and broad crossbandings. Two short over two long graduated drawers with circular penny ring handles, cockbeaded drawers which are all oak lined. The whole has fabulous original side carrying gilt-metal handles on the bookcase section and on the bureau.