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Learn MoreMahogany Dressing Kneehole Desk by Thomas Chippendale
- This handsome kneehole desk from the highly esteemed Thomas Chippendale is a rare treasure
- A masterpiece of design & construction, Chippendale put much effort into perfecting the desk
- The cabinetmaker's attention to detail and refined taste shines in every aspect of this desk
- The genius of Thomas Chippendale’s designs defined the furniture styles of the 18th century
- Get complete item description here
$88,500
Item No.
31-8851
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Description
This rare mahogany kneehole desk was crafted by the inimitable Thomas Chippendale, the famed 18th-century cabinetmaker whose designs were so influential that an entire style bears his name, rather than that of the monarch. He was famous for using the highest quality timbers, the finest quality mounts and for striving for perfection in every piece of furniture he created. This handsome kneehole desk exemplifies all of these hallmarks and is a masterpiece in refined design.. . .
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This rare mahogany kneehole desk was crafted by the inimitable Thomas Chippendale, the famed 18th-century cabinetmaker whose designs were so influential that an entire style bears his name, rather than that of the monarch. He was famous for using the highest quality timbers, the finest quality mounts and for striving for perfection in every piece of furniture he created. This handsome kneehole desk exemplifies all of these hallmarks and is a masterpiece in refined design.
As a virtuoso of design and construction, Chippendale put as much effort into perfecting the interior as he did the exterior of his furniture. The timber on this piece is the finest quality Cuban mahogany, and Chippendale’s innovative and signature red wash has preserved the timber to near perfection. The cabinetmaker's attention to detail shines in the delicately carved band of guilloche below the upper drawer, the intricate key motif carved into the desk's feet and the fire-gilded buckle drop handles. Even the interior lining of the top drawer is made of fine mahogany, in case the desk's owner wanted to prop it open for display. Truly a historical triumph, this work of art is a museum-quality rarity.
The son of a Yorkshire cabinetmaker, Thomas Chippendale quickly excelled in the family business. By the age of 36, he owned a series of workshops throughout England and an expansive timber yard for harvesting the finest woods. In 1754, Chippendale published The Gentleman and Cabinetmaker's Director, considered the “bible” of furniture design of its day. The book contained over 161 plates with an astounding range of furniture in the Gothic, Chinese and Rococo styles. Subsequent publications of the text throughout Europe and North America included many Neo-Classical designs, serving to propel Chippendale into the international spotlight. Soon, Chippendale's distinguished clients included Catherine II of Russia, famed actor David Garrick, the noble houses of Nostell Priory, Harewood House, Burton Constable, Ayrshire and Kent and more. Many of these originally commissioned pieces are still held in the most prestigious and private royal collections today.
Circa 1780
35" high x 40 3/8" wide x 22 1/2" deep
As a virtuoso of design and construction, Chippendale put as much effort into perfecting the interior as he did the exterior of his furniture. The timber on this piece is the finest quality Cuban mahogany, and Chippendale’s innovative and signature red wash has preserved the timber to near perfection. The cabinetmaker's attention to detail shines in the delicately carved band of guilloche below the upper drawer, the intricate key motif carved into the desk's feet and the fire-gilded buckle drop handles. Even the interior lining of the top drawer is made of fine mahogany, in case the desk's owner wanted to prop it open for display. Truly a historical triumph, this work of art is a museum-quality rarity.
The son of a Yorkshire cabinetmaker, Thomas Chippendale quickly excelled in the family business. By the age of 36, he owned a series of workshops throughout England and an expansive timber yard for harvesting the finest woods. In 1754, Chippendale published The Gentleman and Cabinetmaker's Director, considered the “bible” of furniture design of its day. The book contained over 161 plates with an astounding range of furniture in the Gothic, Chinese and Rococo styles. Subsequent publications of the text throughout Europe and North America included many Neo-Classical designs, serving to propel Chippendale into the international spotlight. Soon, Chippendale's distinguished clients included Catherine II of Russia, famed actor David Garrick, the noble houses of Nostell Priory, Harewood House, Burton Constable, Ayrshire and Kent and more. Many of these originally commissioned pieces are still held in the most prestigious and private royal collections today.
Circa 1780
35" high x 40 3/8" wide x 22 1/2" deep
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Specifications
| Maker: | Chippendale, Thomas |
| Period: | 18th Century |
| Origin: | England |
| Type: | Desk/Writing Tables |
| Style: | Chippendale |
| Depth: | 22.5 in. (57.15 cm) |
| Width: | 40.38 in. (102.55 cm) |
| Height: | 35.0 in. (88.9 cm) |
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Buy with Confidence
At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.
Learn More
