Georgian Japanned Chinoiserie Wall Corner Cupboard C.1750

A wonderfully characterful mid-18th century English japanned wall-hanging corner cupboard, dating to the Georgian period, circa 1750. Of traditional architectural form, the cupboard has a moulded projecting cornice above a single panelled door, retaining extensively worn chinoiserie decoration on a black japanned ground. The decoration depicts an oriental landscape populated with figures, exotic birds, foliage and architectural motifs, surrounded by gilt foliate and diaper-pattern borders. Although much of the original painted and gilt surface has worn away through age and use, considerable traces remain and the outlines of the former decoration can still be clearly seen in relief across the surface. The resulting time-worn appearance gives the cupboard considerable character and provides a particularly evocative example of early English japanned decoration. The door is fitted with decorative pierced brass butterfly hinges and retains an early lock, believed to be original, and working key. Opening to reveal a simple boarded interior fitted with three corner shelves, the topmost shaped. The cupboard is constructed with oak backboards. A highly decorative piece of Georgian furniture whose considerable wear and historic repairs form an important part of its appearance and character.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 83 cm

Width: 54 cm (across the front)

Depth: 37 cm (along the short side)

CONDITION

Presented in extensively worn antique condition, with numerous marks, knocks, scratches, splits, losses and historic repairs commensurate with its considerable age and use. The japanned and chinoiserie decoration is heavily worn, with substantial losses to the painted and gilt surface. The original decorative scheme remains evident, with areas of lost decoration still visible in relief across the surface. There is a vertical split to the door which has historically been secured from the reverse with a oak batten. An infill strip has been added to the left-hand side of the door opening, and the oak base of the cupboard is a later replacement. There are further age-related splits, old nail and fixing holes, small losses, surface wear and evidence of historic repairs throughout, as illustrated in the photographs. The cupboard retains an early lock, believed to be original, and working key. The cupboard remains a highly decorative and usable piece.

As an antique or vintage piece, signs of age and use should be expected and are part of its character. The photographs form an important part of the description and should be viewed alongside the written condition report. If you would like further information or additional photographs, we are always happy to help before purchase. If any dimensions are critical, please check these with us before purchasing.