18th Century English Walnut Bureau Bookcase, or Secretary Desk

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Description

A fine 18th Century George II Period walnut bureau bookcase, in two parts. The upper section had two doors with … Read more A fine 18th Century George II Period walnut bureau bookcase, in two parts. The upper section had two doors with original beveled glass panes and opens to one fixed shelf and two adjustable shelves. Below, the fall-front desk opens to reveal a beautifully fitted interior with eight dovetailed drawers and five pigeonhole compartments for paper and letters. Teal blue velvet chenille writing surface is old, but not original and shows some wear.
Two small pull-out shelves for candles. The bureau has four dovetailed drawers with cast brass open-backplate drawer pulls, not original but to the period.
Locks are in working order with three keys. Rich, beautiful burl of walnut with book-matched veneers and marquetry details in the slant front and interesting patterned grain with two large knots in the lower drawers. Bookcase was fitted with lights at some point and has an old UK cord at the top. Excellent condition for a 250 year old antique, with only minor veneer loss and repair. An exceptional example of 18th century English cabinetmaking designed with both function and understated elegance. Circa 1740-1760
Overall Dimensions: 76"H x 29.5"W x 19"D
Top: 39"H x 29.5"W x 11.5"D
Bottom: 37.75"H x 29.5"W x 19"D
Desk when open: 29"D x 29.25"H clearance See less