This is a very good example of a rather rare genuine antique English Victorian circa 1855 Wellington Chest with a Sectrtaire pull out Writing Desk.

The whole is finished in what appears to be in light ‘honey‘ coloured Satin Mahogany which has a lovely ‘satin sheen’ when polished.

Wellington Chests are an unusual variant of a Chest of Drawers as they are of taller and narrower proportions than conventionally proportioned Chest of Drawers. They also have a very efficient locking system in that what appears to be a full height vertical flat pillaster is hinged so as to slightly overlap all the drawers and when once locked ( with its single lock ) secures all the drawers from opening.

This Chest has what appears to be seven full width stacked and graduated drawer fronts sometimes referred as a Semainier however two of the drawer fronts are faux as they are in fact one drawer front and conceal a pull out secretaire with a drop front fabric lined ( still with the original fabric ) writing surface. Within the Secretaire are a pair of lighter coloured feature finished full width stacked drawers each with their original fabric lining and pairs of turned ebonised drawer pull knobs.

The top has quality bold edge moldings and the whole is supported on a protruding plynth base.

Size: Width 87cm x Depth 48cm x Height 130cm.

Condition: The case and the drawers are all structurally sound however the whole would benefit from some minor professional restorations and a general refurbishment.

Price: As a result we can offer two options - 1/. Offered as is for only $1,250 and you get it restored and benefit from the value added factor once restored. OR 2/. We offer it fully professionally restored for $3,995 and we benefit from the value added factor once restored. Your choice and once fully restored should be insured for around $5,000.

Sellers Observation: Wellington Chests are rare and those with a Secretaire / Desk are even rarer. Also they are usually finished (depending on age ) in traditional Rosewood, Mahogany or This one is finished in a harder to acquire Satin Mahogany finish. Most Wellington Chests just have drawers so this one is extra special having a fitted writing section and must have been an expensive custom made piece for a lovely and impressive room.