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https://www.decorativecollective.com/dealers/anthony-short-antiquesA superb mid-19th century Victorian burr walnut and marquetry Canterbury, or magazine rack, of outstanding quality, dating from circa 1850.
Crafted in richly figured burr walnut, this elegant piece displays a deep, warm colour and beautifully pronounced grain. The rectangular frame is finely accented with satinwood and boxwood stringing and is crowned with four crisply turned finials, lending a refined architectural presence.
The upper section is divided into three generous compartments by shaped fret-cut dividers, perfect for organising magazines, newspapers, sheet music or correspondence. Turned uprights and delicately carved blind fretwork add further sophistication and detail.
Below, a mahogany lined frieze drawer with a beautifully figured burr walnut front and original turned knobs offers practical additional storage. The whole stands on tall, slender turned legs, terminating in the original brass castors with white porcelain wheels, both elegant and highly collectable, allowing the Canterbury to be moved with ease.
English, circa 1850, this fine example remains in very good condition, structurally sound with firm joints and, most importantly, a superb original patina. Its rich, mellow colour and untouched character testify to generations of careful use and preservation.
Equally at home in a formal period setting or as a statement piece in a contemporary interior, this is a particularly refined example of Victorian cabinetmaking, combining exquisite craftsmanship, practicality and timeless decorative appeal.