George III burr walnut & rosewood writing cabinet in the manner of Mayhew & Ince

Stock Code: 2271 - SOLD

Description: A visually striking, compact George III rosewood, ebony, burr walnut and fruitwood ladies writing cabinet in the manner of Mayhew & Ince, of superb quality, retaining excellent original colour and patina.

The top section, with fielded panel door veneered in burr walnut, with rosewood inlaid into the fields of the panels, the door is surmounted by a satinwood cornice inlaid with ebony an ebony and satinwood inlaid key. The door opens to reveal an arrangement of adjustable shelves, pigeon holes and drawer. The base is supported by square section tapering legs banded with satinwood and inlaid with rosewood. The central frieze drawer is veneered in ebony and opens to reveal a leather covered retractable writing surface. The sides are banded with satinwood and veneered with ebony, the ebony panels to all parts of the piece strung with box in a geometric pattern.

Further Information: This type of cabinet was conceived for the lady of the house as her personal writing bureau and desk. They were often used in the ladies chamber or drawing room, not in the main rooms of the house.

Sir Albert Edward Richardson K.C.V.O., F.R.I.B.A, F.S.A., (1880 ? 1964) was a leading English architect, teacher and writer about architecture during the first half of the 20th century. He was Professor of Architecture at University College London, a President of the Royal Academy, editor of Architects' Journal and founder of the Georgian Group.

Condition: Excellent. Minor restorations to chipped veneers, leather writing surface old replacement. Cleaning, waxing.

Country of Origin: England

Origin/Age: English, George III, circa 1770

Provenance: The collection of Professor Sir Albert Richardson, Avenue House, Ampthill, Bedfordshire.

Maker: In the manner of Mayhew & Ince

Dimensions: Height 61.75 inches (156.84cm) Width 26.00 inches (66.04cm) Depth 18.00 inches (45.72cm)

Price: £15,900