Lot 281 , A William & Mary chinoiserie black japanned double dome top secretaire cabinet, W.3ft 6in. D.1ft 9in. H.6ft 5in.

A William & Mary chinoiserie black japanned double dome top secretaire cabinet, with moulded top, two doors enclosing an arrangement of ten drawers, fall front drawer enclosing pigeon holes and drawers and three further long drawers, on bun feet, W.3ft 6in. D.1ft 9in. H.6ft 5in.
Estimate £1,000-1,500

Formerly at Bickleigh Castle, Devon, and offered by descent from the family

Looks to be untouched for many years. Working from top to bottom - cornice is heavily scuffed with signs of old worm holes and later black paint which is now flaking away. Front doors with splits running vertically from the top and bottom, in left door these run approx 3 inches or so , in right door the splitting is more notable running approx 16 inches up from bottom and 9 inches from the top. Some of the jappaning has flaked away leaving bare patches. Hinges to left door top left hinge is starting to tear and split. Key slightly bent out of shape, lock not working. On opening the doors, internal lacquering equally flaking away, an additional strip of wood has been added at top to fix door hinge to, as is usual internal drawers in better condition with lighter surface wear and flaking. Base section - all drawer fronts with wear and denting. Top key works for top drawer lock, revealing an interior which is scuffed but intact. Handles, escutcheons and all other brass ware look to be original. Sides heavily worn and faded on the left side with ghostly outlines of the lacquering now showing, right side in better condition although quite heavily worn at the base. Plinth and bun feet equally heavily rubbed and worn.
We strongly advise you contact us and obtain numerous additional photographs if you are unable to view this piece in person.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £13,500