Probably dating to the latter years of Charles I before puritanism swept the land, the exuberance and fine quality of this chest indicates that it is from a top workshop. The three panelled top is heavily moulded with no cracks to the panels and it is held by its original wire hinges. The top rail has lunette carving and the three panels, again with no cracks, are carved with diamonds and rosettes with very unusual scrolls. The muntins have similar carved rosettes set within guilloche and the carved decoration on the legs ends just over two inches from the ground, suggesting that it has lost very little height. It has its original spandrels and internal till and lid and has the rare feature of a small secret cupboard with a sliding door below it. The sides and back are also panelled and moulded. The quality and type of carving suggests that it is probably from Yorkshire - see lot number 298 in the Clive Sherwood sale catalogue which shows an armchair with with similar carving. The colour and rich dark patination are outstanding. It measures 44 1/2 inches wide x 20 inches deep x 29 inches high.
Ref: 10542
SOLDLooking for something similar?