Object Description
A fine quality early 19th century (circa 1815) mahogany and maple secretaire bookcase in the manner of George Bullock (died 1818).
This secretaire bookcase consists of a mahogany and maple shaped pediment with inlaid foliate decoration to the centre, pedestals to all four corners with raised Classical urns leading down to a mahogany frieze.
The bookcase section having two opening glazed mahogany doors with shaped glazing bars finely inlaid with mahogany and boxwood stringing surrounded by a mahogany, boxwood and ebony moulding.
The doors opening to reveal three adjustable shelves for storage of books or any other treasures you wish to display.
To either side of the doors a wonderful floral and foliate inlaid design of laurel leaves with a floral motif below in the typical George Bullock style.
The lower section consists of a mahogany top leading down to a secretaire drawer with a finely inlaid birdseye maple and rosewood panel with central floral motif and scrolling foliate designs surrounded by a boxwood, ebony and mahogany banding, again the inlaid decoration typical of that used by George Bullock.
The drawer opening to reveal a green tooled leather writing surface with a fitted interior consisting of eight pigeon holes, four drawers with central cupboard (with lock).
This leads down to two mahogany doors with recessed panels with ebony and boxwood mouldings, the doors opening to reveal a shelf for further storage, to either side of the doors an inlaid laurel leaf design with floral motif to the top and below replicating the inlaid decoration above.
The sides are of mahogany, the secretaire bookcase supported on four turned and tapering carved feet.
George Bullock was born in Birmingham in the late 18th century with no definite details of his birth and died in London in 1818, he is known as one of the most innovative designers in the Regency period, being a sculptor, designer and cabinet maker.
His furniture designs and interiors were very individual and unique to him, working in both Liverpool and later London he designed pieces for many patrons including members of the Royal family, the British Government and many influential people of the time.
Many of his designs can be found in ‘Tracings by Thomas Wilkinson, from the Designs of the late Mr. George Bullock 1820’ now held in the City Museums & Arts Gallery, Birmingham where many designs are documented including drawings of floral and foliate decoration very similar to those used in this secretaire bookcase.
This secretaire bookcase is in very good condition for age with keys to all locks, is of stable construction and can go straight into a home.
Please note: the shells displayed have been used for photographic purposes only.
Also please note some photos of the bookcase show a reflection of brass grills in the glass, this is a reflection from another bookcase we have.
Size:
Height: 93.5” / 237.5cm
Width: 42.25” / 107.25cm
Depth: 18.5” / 47cm