George III Serpentine Mahogany Chest
Stock No: 10753
£13,500.00
In-stock
Country: English
Date: Circa 1785 - 1795
Medium: Mahogany, Satinwood, Ebony
Dimensions
Height: 84.50cm (33.27 inches)
Width: 104.50cm (41.14 inches)
Depth: 57.00cm (22.44 inches)
Main description
This elegant George III serpentine chest of drawers, crafted in England circa 1785-1795, represents a sophisticated example of late 18th-century English cabinetmaking.
The top is executed in satinwood, bordered by rich mahogany crossbanding and punctuated by precise ebony stringing. At its centre, a highly figured flamed mahogany oval panel is inset, providing a striking focal point that draws the eye to the quality of the timber selection.
The chest features four graduated, mahogany-lined drawers, a hallmark of superior construction for the period. The top drawer is fitted with a functional, pull-out brushing slide finished in a beige suede lining. The drawer fronts themselves are crossbanded in satinwood and feature later gilt brass handles in the Rococo style, which offer a decorative contrast to the warm, figured veneers. The silhouette is defined by canted corners that sweep into the figured mahogany sides, and the entire piece is raised on substantial, mahogany-veneered bracket feet.
View the complete Freshfords Chests collection.
What Is a Chest of Drawers?
A chest of drawers is one of the most recognisable forms of storage furniture, consisting of a series of stacked drawers within a single cabinet. Used throughout the Georgian, Regency, Victorian and Edwardian periods, chest of drawers became an essential furnishing in 4cabinet making.
For further information, see our Antique Furniture Periods encyclopaedia on Storage Chests and Tall Furniture.
What Is Satinwood?
Satinwood is a highly decorative hardwood recognised for its bright golden colouring and natural lustre. It became one of the defining cabinet making timbers of the late Georgian and Regency periods, particularly for veneers, crossbanding and marquetry.
For further information, see our Woods encyclopaedia on Satinwood.
What Is Ebony?
Ebony is one of the most prized decorative hardwoods used in antique furniture, recognised for its deep black colour, exceptional density and smooth, polished finish. Sourced primarily from India, Sri Lanka, Africa and Southeast Asia, ebony was widely used throughout the Georgian, Regency and Victorian periods for fine inlay, stringing, mouldings, turned details and luxury furniture, where its striking contrast complemented lighter timbers such as satinwood, tulipwood and mahogany.
For further information, see our Woods encyclopaedia on Ebony.
What Is Mahogany?
Mahogany is one of the most important and widely used hardwoods in the history of antique furniture. Celebrated for its strength, stability and rich colouring, it became the defining cabinet making timber of the Georgian, Regency and Victorian periods, appearing in everything from dining tables and bookcases to chests of drawers and library furniture.
For further information, see our Woods encyclopaedia on Mahogany.
What Is the George III Period?
The George III period (1760–1820) is widely regarded as one of the finest periods of English furniture making. Influenced by designers such as Thomas Chippendale, George Hepplewhite and Thomas Sheraton, furniture from the period is recognised for its elegant proportions, high quality cabinet making and the widespread use of mahogany, satinwood and other fine timbers.
For further information, see our Antique Furniture Periods encyclopaedia on the Georgian Period.
Why Buy From Freshfords Antiques?
Established in 1987, Freshfords Antiques has spent nearly four decades sourcing and curating the finest examples of English antique furniture. Our reputation is built upon a deep-rooted specialism in the Georgian and Regency periods, where we focus on selecting pieces that retain their genuine age, original patination, and unimpeachable authenticity. We believe that an antique should not only be a significant historical object but also a functional and beautiful addition to a contemporary home.
As proud members of the British Antique Dealers’ Association (BADA), we operate under a rigorously enforced code of conduct that prioritises professional integrity and expertise. Membership of BADA is only granted after a thorough election procedure and is subject to annual review, ensuring that our clients can purchase with complete confidence. When you acquire a piece from Freshfords, you are benefiting from a wealth of experience, a dedication to craftsmanship, and a commitment to preserving the heritage of the finest English cabinet making.
