Saved from the bonfire!

Part of Lots Road Auctions charm has always been the idea of finding eccentric pieces hidden in our salerooms... Yesterday's Fine Sale saw a unique lot that aroused much curiosity:  Lot 313, a beautiful and rare William and Mary oyster chest of drawers, c. 1700, which was originally destined for the bonfire!  (left - Lot 313, sold for £4800)

The chest of drawers is a wonderful example of  a piece of furniture made during the Age of the Cabinet Maker. Such pieces were made for the wealthier classes in the latter part of the 17th Century. Made from walnut, the chest of drawers has fantastic veneering, such as finely cut laburnum oyster veneers that adorn every surface and some high quality drawer dovetails. There is additionally some probable aristocratic provenance reading 'Chest of Drawers from Lord Burgh' dated 'Oct 28th 1926.' It could have originated from a London property after the Great Fire of London. The condition of the chest is poor but its rarity and high quality would make for a highly interesting restoration project and despite its poor condition, it is an honest example of craftsmanship, full of integrity and oozing fading grandeur. The chest was sold for £4800, making it one of the highest antique pieces of furniture to have been sold in yesterday's auction.