Webberley Antiques has dated this piece to the 1750s.
The chest retains its original lock and original brass escutcheons and finely shaped brass handles – all very sound with wonderful patina and the slightly rounded off profiles that only 100s of years of use, polish and care can produce.
Peg jointed throughout, original also, and with a fine fielded panel back and fielded panels to both sides set within substantial chamfered stiles and muntins.
The four front panels, again fielded, are carved by hand with very beautiful gothic arches and these are set over six original drawers with original oak linings.
The rising top formed of two huge oak boards with moulded ogee detail to the outer border and beneath are two long oak braces which allow it to rise.
These are fixed with very early iron rivets and have been on the chest for most of its life but are likely to be early replacements for looped wire hinges.
In excellent condition, one handle backplate with missing upper section but this is an honourable scar and merely serves to show the handles as original (no evidence of anything earlier) and minor nibbles and marks consistent with age and use. A section of the oak top has a shim repaired natural shrinkage split around an old knot, this was repaired many moons ago and will not move further.
Offering loads of storage and a really heavy, original and substantial piece of early Welsh Oak made by hand in c. 1750
Dimensions are:
59.5 inches wide, 24 inches deep, 45.5 inches high.
For metric please multiply by 2.5
Webberley Antiques has dated this piece to the 1750s.
Specialists in 18th century and earlier furniture for more than 45 years
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Webberley Antiques Profile Page
Impressive and Beautiful George II Welsh Oak Mule Chest with Original Brasses C. 1750
