A FINE GEORGE III MAHOGANY CHEST OF DRAWERS circa 1765

of serpentine form, the figured quarter veneered top with a molded edge above four cockbeaded drawers with figured veneers and bail handles, the top drawer fitted with a baize-lined slide concealing an interior fitted with a velvet-lined panel rising on a ratchet and reversing to a mirror within a carved giltwood slip, and with various trays and lidded boxes inlaid with chequer stringing, one end with a small drawer containing brass lidded glass bottles for pounce and ink, the canted corners with blind fret ornament, and supported on a molding above bracket feet.

Very fine matched figured veneers with good old waxed patination on the top and front, the plainer sides with a much drier finish. The top with a slight lateral warp at the right hand side towards the back with slight tearing of the veneers, but this appears to be stable. There is a 12 inch piece of support molding lacking below the molded edge of the top on the left side, both sides with small losses and bruising on the back edges, and with small losses and bruising to the edges of the canted corners. The feet have old scuffs and scratches. The drawer fronts have slight bruising, losses and repairs overall to the cock beading. The lateral support between the lower two drawers has sprung slightly at the left and requires repair – This can be seen on the illustration. The interior slide appears to retain its old baize lining, the silk lining to the reverse of the mirror also appearing to be original, but with considerable wear. The interior mirror is somewhat distressed and there are missing divisions to the left side of the fitted interior. A very nice chest requiring a little attention from a good cabinet maker.
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 chest with its superbly figured and finely matched veneers retains its well-fitted dressing drawer including lidded boxes and compartment, and unusually the reversible mirror is still lined with the original velvet, some of the fitted being similarly lined and edged with woven silver tape.