A rare, late-17th century, oak, moulded, fall-front bureau
10084
The rectangular top above the graduated fall-front decorated with a central split baluster and two moulded panels either side, each containing a diamond-shaped panel. The escutcheon later, the lock and hinges replaced. The interior fitted with drawers, pigeon holes and a well. The front lopers either side of two moulded panels and two short drawers each decorated with two moulded panels. The two long drawers decorated with a pair of split balusters either side of two large moulded panels. The drawers all with later knobs and escutcheons. The carcass pine. The drawers lined in pine with fragments of original blue paper lining. Excellent configuration, colour and patina. English, fourth quarter of the 17th century.
17th Century
1675
Oak
England
Oak furniture (Chinnery) fig. 3.429a/b illustrates a similar model.
It is very exciting to have found a moulded front oak bureau from this period, as they were usually not decorated, and I have only ever seen them in books or in one of the great, old, country house collections. This bureau is very handsome and has remarkably survived with its mouldings intact. The construction of the fall is unusual and the inset, geometric panels with give it bold depth. The interior is simply fitted and eminently practical and, as with the exterior, in untouched condition. The simple moulded decoration of the drawers is lifted by the applied, double split-balusters. The bracket feet are elegantly sculpted and give the bureau presence.
