An 18Th C Oak Breakfront Bookcase In The Style Of William Kent

A rare and unusual Kentian oak bookcase, the distinctive dentil moulded cornice above egg and dart moulding, the frieze centred with a winged baccic head by carved bunches of grapes and ears of ripe corn with leafy acanthus, the central section outlined with carved moulding, scrolls and graduated husks and flanked by chicken wire filled panel doors and with pilasters headed by the Garter Star centred by a cross and and with running rose and ribbon, the lower part with fielded panel doors and a carved and moulded plinth.

This outstanding piece bears similarity with one of William Kent’s great architectural masterpieces, Chiswick House and where the identical treatment is given to the cornice as at Chiswick, it is interesting to note that Kent employed the Garter Star in at least six or seven of his recorded designs.
The use of Baccic elements in the cornice might indicate that this bookcase might have been intended for a dining room.

PRICE ON APPLICATION.

William Kent (1685 – 1748) was the leading architect and designer of early Georgian Britain. Credited as having introduced the Palladian style of architecture into England and originating the 'natural' style of gardening known as the English landscape garden, Kent was a polymath, who also turned his hand to designing sculpture, furniture, metalwork, book illustration, theatrical design and costume.

Dimensions: 280cm w x 47cm d x 227cm h

Condition: Excellent antique condition

Origin: England

Circa: 1730

Ref: A1298

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