A Charles II oak, snakewood, fruitwood and laburnum chest of drawers late 17th century

in two parts with panelled sides

Probably acquired by Sir William Courtenay, 2^nd Bt. (1675 - 1735) and thence by descent.

Generally very good and with superb colour and patina. The top of polished boarded construction with typical separations and with cleated border to the front and sides. The top has a lot of old scratches and with some marks and indents commensurate with age. The front with later brass handles and escutcheons. Some usual cracking to the veneer . Mouldings good and with some wear with indents. Sides good and tidy. The right side has a partially replaced apron return moulding towards the rear. The drawer interior floors with typical splits. Some usual wear to the short profile shaped feet. A very fine and imposing early chest of drawers.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The design of the present lot is inspired by 17th century cabinet-work produced in the Netherlands. Its elaborate mouldings combined with the use of exotic woods suggest that this piece would have been a highly regarded article of furniture, commissioned by a wealthy patron. Further related examples also featuring exotic timbers are illustrated in Percy MacQuoid, The Age of Oak, London, rev. ed. 1958, p. 99, pl. 212 and Adam Bowett, English Furniture 1660-1714 From Charles II to Queen Anne, 2002, p. 50, pl. 2:29. Bowett notes in the accompanying caption, that 'this type of heavily moulded chest embellished with exotic materials represented the ultimate fashionable development of the joiner-made chest of drawers'.