Stock Code: 2479

Description: An exceptionally rare if not unique, bone inlaid mahogany cellaret, retaining wonderful original colour and patina and of exceptional exhibition quality throughout. The rectangular stepped raised hinged top inlaid with bone and also with a border of bone inlay formed in a circular interlaced pattern design, opening to reveal storage for 24 wine bottles. The front inlaid with bone swags and roundels, the corners with a brick like rusticated quoins, with a fluted lower edge. The cellaret is supported on square section tapering legs also with rusticated quoins standing on brass capped castors.

Further Information: A quoin, in Western architecture, is both the external angle or corner stones of a building. These cornerstones are both decorative and structural, since they usually differ in jointing, colour, texture, or size from the masonry of the adjoining walls. Most frequently quoins are toothed, set in a regular pattern of alternating lengths. Such toothed construction was used at external corners of brick or stone buildings in ancient Rome. This piece draws heavily from that architecture and reflects superbly the intricate quality bestowed by its cabinet maker.

Condition: Excellent. Possible minor old restorations, waxing. Bone inlay certified by the Natural History Museum.

Country of Origin: England

Origin/Age: English, George III, circa 1780

Provenance: Private collection UK. With Ronald Phillips Ltd, Bruton St, London.

Dimensions: Height 32.00 inches (81.28cm) Width 28.25 inches (71.76cm) Depth 19.00 inches (48.26cm)