Description:
JB423: Antique Regency Table cabinet of architectural form the complex shape covered with embossed and tooled leather. The cabinet has double doors to the front which open to reveal a nest of drawers covered with tan coloured leather. The cabinet stands on embossed  brass feet and has embossed brass ring handles. There is a secret compartment in the top. Circa 1820.

Origin: UK

Circa: 1820

Size: 28 cm wide by 21 cm by 24.3 cm:  11 inches wide by 8.3  inches by  9.6 inches.

Condition: There are several marks and scuffs in the leather covering. See photographs. working lock and key.

The table cabinet was also the ideal object for the interpretation of neoclassicism. The proportions of the cabinet, unlike those of other boxes, allow for more height than width, a feature which prompts architectural design. The cabinet makers of the period made full use of this characteristic and produced table cabinets in striking forms, with the unmistakable flavor of the Regency.

The cabinet has double doors to the front which open to reveal a nest of drawers covered with tan coloured leather.  The drawers have embossed brass ring handles. 

This cabinet is illustrated in Antique Boxes, Tea Caddies, and Society, 1700--1880  Antigone Clarke & Joseph O'Kelly, ISBN: 0764316885.

 "A group of Regency table cabinets, which show the successful combination of different architectural elements and decorative techniques. The dark green leather covered cabinet at the front, opens up to reveal yellow leather covered drawers, enhanced with gilt metal handles. The top lifts with a trick opening to reveal a concealed compartment. 10.6" wide. It dates from the second decade of the 19th century."

 The top is accented with an engraved brass ornament which has an exotic oriental inspiration.   The radiated form is reminiscent of Anglo Indian boxes made in horn. 

See:  

http://hygra.com/sb/sbaihornsh.htm 

http://hygra.com/sb/hornaisb.htm 

http://www.hygra.com/tc2/tcaihorn.htm 

The Brass ornament on the top is finely chassed.  

 Detail of one of the paw feet

There is a secret compartment in the lid. The hidden release catch is accessed by taking out one of the drawers. In these photos my index finger is on the catch.

 The secret compartment in the lid is lined with tan colored leather.