Dimensions
30 inches high, 13.75 inches deep, and 30.5 inches wide.
When top is open and extended the depth is 26.25 inches deep and from floor to lower edge of top when open is 28.5 inches.
Full Description
A very good solid elm George II bachelor’s chest of a desirably small size and with a beautiful colour and rich patination.
The four graduated drawers with original brass batswing handles with engraved back plates and original brass hinges to the fold out top. This opens to sit on the side lopers and create a flat twin surface. The front half is a writing desk with a tan coloured leather skiver within the original crossbanded border, the rear surface is a single board of elm.
Bachelors chests were exactly as their name suggests. Designed for single men in the 18th century who were renting rooms and who needed multi-functional furniture in what could be quite cramped conditions. Chests of drawers were commissioned from cabinet makers which could also be used as a desk and provide a large surface for brushing out clothing. But here the design rises above functionality with the use of richly figured elm and the lovely crossbanding to the writing surface.
The drawers are oak, elm and deal lined with fine dovetailed joints and all open and close smoothly. Locks are present but there is no key.
The chest has had small repairs, some fine old shrinkage cracks and restoration over the last 280 years and has knocks, marks and losses consistent with age and caring use. There are old woodworm holes here and there, long since treated and dead.
Very attractive shaped apron and original shaped bracket feet.
The elm with the fabulous colour that only comes from centuries of use.
A very solid and usable little mid-18th century chest oozing charm and of beautifully compact proportions. Highly recommended.
