A Rare Charles I Oak Standing Cupboard

Possibly unique small oak cupboard, which was made in south Gloucestershire/north Wiltshire. The top rail with distinctive carved roundels, alternating between a stylised star and daisy head motif, terminating in small well-turned pendants.

The single door to the top has a deeply recessed panel, with very well-moulded framework, and is carved with a single arch made up of small roundels. To either side of the centre panel are small vertical panels with tall flower-like devices supported on a stem with fleshy leaves. Inside the top cupboard is a concealed compartment with access through the floor of the cupboard.

Below the shelf is a rail carved with very symmetrical lunettes, with daisy-like centres. Again, the single door is deeply recessed and this time has a horizontal “S” scroll with repeats of the daisy flower. The small vertical panels which flank the door are decorated with a single square and roundels.

This little cupboard is beautifully finished by the original pot-shelf, which sits between stoutly-turned supports, and rests on run-moulded rails.

The colour and patina are excellent.

I rarely believe that pieces of early furniture are made for children, but this is the exception. This would have been an expensive piece of furniture when it was made – the run-mouldings and rich, deep carving would suggest the cupboard was made for a much-loved child in a wealthy family.

Gloucestershire, circa 1635.

Width 33 inches, height 46.5 inches, depth 17 inches.

Ref 2300

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