George II Red Walnut Kneehole Fitted Desk Dressing Table

A good Chippendale period mid 18th century red walnut kneehole writing desk dressing table of small proportions and dating to circa 1740-50. With a lift-up top featuring a fully fitted interior with a central ratcheted writing slope, lidded compartments, wells and letter racks, the writing slope lifts to reveal a mirror with a hidden drawer and further storage well whilst a further small ink & pen drawer swivels out from the side of the desk. The exterior with a long dummy drawer above three oak lined drawers to each side and a secret apron drawer and cupboard to the kneehole.

With original brass handles and steel locks to the drawers and kneehole cupboard (the top lock for the lid has been replaced at some point as has the green leather to the writing slope). There are keys for the drawers and cupboard, but not the top but we should be able to arrange for one to be cut. Good colour similar to mahogany, minor marks and wear commensurate with age and use including a small piece let into the top edge and splits in the grain to the top. The handles are typical of the 1740’s and the same design is found on pieces by John Pardoe (active c.1717-1748), Giles Grendey (1693-1780) and Peter Fish (fl.1744-1788), originally this would have been called a ‘bureau dressing table’, rather than a kneehole desk, these bureaus first occurred in the 17th century and became increasingly common from 1700, generally they were made for bedchambers and dressing rooms. Overall a high quality piece of furniture and rare to find these superior dual purpose designs.

 

Please feel free to request more photos as we are limited in the number we can upload.

The overall dimensions at the largest points are approximately

Width - 36in (91.5cm)

Depth - 22 1/2in (59.7cm)

Height - 30 7/8in (78.5cm)

Ref: 0689

When buying it is important appreciate antiques have long histories of daily use and as such, over time they gain minor scratches, marks, knocks, shrinkage splits, signs of old woodworm, lifts and losses to veneer, which combine with care and years of polishing to create an individual character and patina. We describe the main flaws and those that fall outside of this bracket but cannot describe each marks separately and therefore suggest you do take the time to request extra photos. We do offer a 14 day money back guarantee if you are unhappy with your purchase but cannot refund the return shipping cost. If you are not sure please do not buy without clarifying or take the view that the only way to have it as near to new as possible is to have it fully and comprehensively restored.

For delivery we use a small carrier experience in carrying antique furniture. Delivery is usually within 31 days and the carrier will make arrangements with you directly. We can provide contact details of other carriers if required.