Superb Oliver Cromwell Oak Press Cupboard with Maker's Initials and Dated 1656

A really original and handsome mid-17th century solid oak press cupboard of small and usable proportions with a most attractive warm honey colour and excellent natural patination.

The upper case with a well carved gadrooned frieze flanked by carved oak leaves and centred by the date 1656, above a pair of fielded doors with geometric carved lozenges and oak leaves which act as flying ribbons (typical of Yorkshire carving of the period).

The central fielded panel with architectural arch and oak leaf border and the whole cupboard with original pegs and extremely substantial and well made.

The lower case with twin doors also and deeply nulled rail – a relatively early motif which declined in popularity after 1660.

The reeding and channel carving continue across all the stiles and muntins to the front and side of both upper and lower case - with punched, scratch carving and bead and bar carving.

Fielded panels to the side and original boarded top – dusted so many times that this too has developed a deep patina.

One of the upper doors and both of the lower doors are stamped with the maker’s mark I.M

The doors open smoothly and close properly – the upper doors with original pintel hinges, the lower with replacements of the original iron H shaped hinges.

A single fixed long shelf to the lower cupboard with original timbers.

Bottom boards of this cupboard are early 19th century replacements in my view.

The backboards original also original and the whole in very good condition consistent with a piece that has been very well cared for over the centuries.
Made during the period of the Protectorate of Oliver Cromwell, a man of strong puritanical and military beliefs.

Cromwell led the political dissent that culminated in the beheading of Charles I after which England, Scotland and Ireland (then called the Commonwealth) became a Republic for 20 years - between 1649 to 1660 – until Charles II was returned to the throne.

Cromwell’s parliament banned celebrations at Easter and singing and Christmas celebrations - feasting, dancing, caroling, and excessive drinking were outlawed as "riot and sensuality". All shops were forced to remain open and taverns were forced to close, leading to riots.

One of the most divisive periods in our Country’s long history. A time when the Royalists who had supported Charles I were disinherited and discredited, catholics were persecuted, Roundheads rewarded.

In 1653 Cromwell dissolved Parliament altogether with the support of his army.

In the midst of this period of civil war and great change, this beautiful cupboard was made and this was a high status and important piece of furniture made perhaps to commemorate a marriage or other key event.

It makes me wonder what was in the mind of I.M. when he carved this date? Could he have had any idea in 1656 that the Monarchy would soon be restored?

A beautiful and functional press cupboard which has continued to give excellent service for 375 years and will continue to do so.