Georgian Walnut Floral Marquetry Escritoire Bureau

DESCRIPTION

An impressive 18th century Georgian walnut escritoire, later enhanced in the early 19th century with richly executed floral and scrolling foliate marquetry. Combining elegant proportions with ingenious cabinetmaking, this handsome bureau makes an impressive statement piece while offering excellent practical storage.

The moulded cornice sits above a cushion-moulded frieze drawer and a fall front beautifully decorated with an intricate floral marquetry panel framed by scrolling foliate borders. The fall opens to reveal a traditional baize-lined writing surface and a finely fitted interior arranged around a central cupboard enclosing three concealed secret drawers, surrounded by an arrangement of small drawers providing useful storage.

The lower section is fitted with three graduated long drawers, decorated with floral marquetry and contrasting borders, the whole standing on shaped bracket feet.

The cabinet has developed a particularly attractive warm colour and mellow patina over the centuries, while the contrasting marquetry creates a striking decorative effect. Equally suited as a functional writing bureau or as a statement piece in a sitting room, library or study, it is an excellent example of period craftsmanship that rewards close inspection.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 161cm

Width: 100cm

Depth: 47cm

CONDITION

This is a well-presented antique cabinet with the character and honest wear expected from over two centuries of use.

There are surface marks, knocks and scratches together with historic repairs and minor losses to areas of veneer and marquetry, including age-related movement to sections of the fall front veneer. The decorative marquetry to the drawer fronts appears to represent an early 19th century enhancement to the original cabinet, with some mouldings also renewed during this period. The external handles, fall-front hinges and bracket feet are also believed to date from the same campaign of alteration, while the central section of the base backboards has been replaced.

The fitted interior appears original and retains its concealed secret drawers. Both the fall front and internal cupboard retain working locks and keys. The drawers run smoothly, joints are sound, and the cabinet is structurally solid and ready for use.

Overall, this is a highly decorative and practical antique escritoire with excellent colour, a fascinating history of sympathetic evolution, and considerable decorative presence.

DELIVERY

Collection is welcome within seven days of purchase unless otherwise agreed. We can usually arrange delivery throughout mainland UK using trusted independent couriers. Delivery is charged at cost, and quotations are available on request. As a general guide, delivery for an average-sized chest of drawers is typically between £80 and £100. Larger items and more remote locations will incur higher charges. Most deliveries are completed within approximately two weeks, although faster delivery may sometimes be available. Please contact us with your postcode for a delivery quotation before purchasing.

AUTHENTICITY & CONDITION

We strive to describe every item as accurately and honestly as possible, highlighting both its strengths and any significant faults. Statements regarding age, attribution, origin and provenance are offered in good faith and represent our professional opinion based on the information available at the time of listing. As all of our items are antique or vintage, minor imperfections, evidence of use and signs of age should be expected and are considered part of their authenticity and appeal.