Antique Mahogany Forty-Two Drawer Specimen Collectors Cabinet

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A finely carved border of gadrooned beading outlines the upper cornice and lower plinth of this substantial collectors cabinet, crafted … Read more A finely carved border of gadrooned beading outlines the upper cornice and lower plinth of this substantial collectors cabinet, crafted circa 1835 during the late William IV period. Designed on an impressive scale, the freestanding mahogany carcase is arranged across three uniform vertical banks of fourteen drawers, providing an extensive forty-two compartments in total. The drawer fronts exhibit subtle graduation in height from top to bottom, making the cabinet remarkably versatile for organising extensive collections such as coins, medals, geological specimens, botanical samples, or works on paper. Every drawer retains its original turned mahogany knob handle, establishing a satisfyingly rhythmic, architectural pattern across the entire facade. Selected for its attractive figure, the mahogany exterior displays rich reddish-brown tones beneath an aged, polished surface with authentic patination. Pulling open the drawers reveals sturdy oak linings, constructed with traditional dovetail joints and fitted to slide cleanly and smoothly on integrated runners. The broad top surface offers ample room for displaying sculpture, lamps, or reference folios, showing light surface marks and mellowed character consistent with genuine age. To the reverse, the cabinet retains its original heavy panelled backboards, reflecting solid workshop construction built to withstand the collective weight of multiple filled drawers. Standing 129 cm tall by 131 cm wide and 50 cm deep, this piece balances monumental storage capacity with a well-proportioned footprint. It serves equally well as a specialist collector's piece or as a striking feature cabinet within a private library, drawing room, or gallery. See less