AN UNUSUAL GEORGE I INLAID WALNUT BACHELORS CHEST circa 1720

with a rectangular quartered, figured, cross banded and feather banded folding top opening to a baize-lined surface lifting to reveal a wainscot oak interior, with a hidden well, the removable tray concealing secret drawers, the case below with one long and two short drawers above a small central drawer above a central cupboard door flanked at each side by four small drawers, all with cross banding and feather banding and with ring handles with round domed back-plates, the cupboard fitted with wainscot oak shelves, compartments and drawers, and supported on stepped moldings and shaped bracket feet.  Retains the original domed gilt-brass handles with rings.

In fine condition, the surface overall with a good waxed surface with exceptional variation to the color and patination indicating its originality. There are the usual old marks, scratches and discoloration overall and with old age cracks and slight movement to the banding and veneers commensurate with age, and later small losses to the veneer. The handles and escutcheons are original and retain some of their old gilt-lacquer surface. The hinges to the center door are possibly later, with later screws and with some restorations to the inner panel at the edges. The baize lining to the flap is modern, and there are old repairs and replacements to the construction surrounding the inner concealed panel. Some indications of old worm damage.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This interesting chest illustrates the ingenuity of the Georgian cabinetmaker in creating a piece of furniture on a small scale but with many uses. Baize-lined folding tops were normally used for laying out clothes to be brushed or, as in the present example, for writing. The unusual hidden compartment would have contained writing implements or valuables, the central cupboard for papers and books.