An Absolutely Stunning Early 18th Century Queen Anne Period Walnut Bureau, Or Writing Desk, In Good Untouched Condition Retaining Wonderful Rich Colour And Patina, Having Superbly Figured Top And Flap With Featherbanded Decoration And Moulded Book Rest, Enclosing Superbly Fitted Interior Featuring Pigeon Holes, Drawers And Sliding Cover To Well, Enclosing 4 Secret Drawers, Over Two Short And Two Long Drawers ,With Further Featherbanded Decoration Plus Attractive Original Brass Handles And Lock Escutcheons, Raised On Original Turned Bun Feet.

This is a quite wonderful example of a Queen Anne Walnut Bureau and it would be a quite challenging to easily find another one which is constructed from such highly figured veneers whilst retaining such an exceptional untouched, rich colour and patina. It has clearly been much loved and cherished throughout the 320 years  or so of its life and is certainly something which will continue to be cherished for many years to come.

The brass handles and lock escutcheons are original which is another extremely rare feature and they certainly add to the overall charm of the piece with not just their originality, but also the charm of their design. It also sits on apparently original turned bun feet with no obvious signs that they are replacements whatsoever.

Another lovely feature is the secret drawers which are tucked into the well area, above the top drawer, accessed via the sliding well inside the flap. There is then a clever cover which initially appears just to be a part of the interior construction which can be removed and gives access to the secret drawers.

A piece for both connoisseurs and new collectors alike this really is a standout item of antique furniture and it’s worth bearing in mind what fantastic condition it remains in despite three centuries of heavy use. In fact it is very much as fit for purpose as the day which it was made.

As with all of the items which we offer for sale this early 18th century walnut bureau has been attended to by our expert restorers and naturally waxed using traditional methods to ensure it is ready to be placed straight into position and use at the home of its eventual lucky owner.

Circa 1705.

Height 42in.
Width 40in.
Depth 23in.