An absolutely superb quality English Regency mahogany breakfront secretaire bookcase attributed to Morgan & Saunders of London, retaining excellent original colour & patina. The moulded cornice with banded flame mahogany frieze, over a three section bookcase with delicate inlaid glazing bars set in a lancet fashion, inside an arrangement of adjustable shelves. The centre section of the base with fitted secretaire drawer with a hide writing surface, beaded rectangular centre panels and with radiating flame mahogany veneer to the outside, two beaded doors open to reveal a cupboard section. The outside sections with five graduated rosewood cock beaded drawers, all with original unusual rococo style handles with bow back plates. Both outside and flanks are bordered by fluted tapering outset columns supported on turned feet, the top is fully brass bound to the edge, cross banded in rosewood and bordered by inlaid boxwood stringing. A fabulous piece of furniture.

Morgan & Saunders were cabinet makers of repute based in extensive premises in the Strand, London. They supplied cabin furniture for Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory and also for his home in Merton, Surrey including a piece called the Trafalgar patent sideboard. A closely related bookcase is shown in Ralph Edwards, Shorter Dictionary of English Furniture page 59, figure 26.