Nicholas Wells Antiques - Fine European Antique Furniture

26/08/2023

George III Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Commode

SNr: 22977

A fine mid 18th century George III commode of serpentine outline and richly figured mahogany with excellent patina, fitted with four graduated oak drawers retaining their original hardware, flanked by carved pilasters of fruiting vines, the whole raised on bold ogee bracket feet. Retaining the original key 

H85 cm
W106cm
D61cm

This mid-18th century George III Chippendale mahogany commode is an exquisite example of furniture design from the mid 18th century. It is made of richly figured mahogany, which has developed a beautiful patina over time, giving it an aged and distinguished appearance.

The commode is of serpentine outline, meaning that it has a gracefully curved shape that adds to its elegance. It features four graduated oak drawers, the size of each drawer increases from the top to the bottom. The original hardware has been retained, which is a testament to the care and preservation that countless owners have bestowed upon the piece.

Flanking the drawers are angled carved pilasters of fruiting vines, which are an example of the decorative motifs that were popular during the 18th century. These pilasters add to the overall ornate appearance of the commode and are evidence of the skilled craftsmanship that went into its creation.

The commode is raised on bold ogee bracket feet, which not only provide stability and support but also add to the aesthetic appeal of the piece. The overall dimensions of the commode are 85 cm in height, 108 cm in width, and 61 cm in depth, making it a relatively compact piece that could be used in a variety of spaces.

In summary, this mid-18th century George III Chippendale mahogany commode is a fine example of 18th-century furniture design, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the era. Its graceful curves, ornate pilasters, and bold feet make it a striking piece that would add elegance and sophistication to any interior.

13/08/2023

Fabulous pair of Regency pier tables with mirrored backs, exceptional carved details throughout and highly figured mahogany.

Height : 104 cm (41 inches)

Width: 66 cm (26 inches)

Depth: 42.5 cm (16.75 inches)

12/03/2023

Finding the best antiques to fit and embody your interior can be a struggle, but, it doesn’t have to be. That’s why at Nicholas Wells Antiques we select items, whether it’s Chinoiserie furniture or French accessories, that not only showcase classic style and unique craftsmanship but also shine...

15/02/2023

A fine mid-19th-century Ceylonese writing slope with carved ebony panels.

The mid-19th century saw a flourishing of trade and culture between East and West, and the of (now Sri Lanka) was at the center of it all. One of the most beautiful artifacts to come out of this period is the writing slope, a unique piece of that was both functional and .

The writing slope is made of carved panels, and is a stunning example of the of the period. The panels are intricately carved with beautiful patterns and designs, and the overall effect is one of and . The writing slope was used to store materials, such as ink, , quills and , and was an essential part of any writer's desk.

The Ceylonese writing slope is a reminder of the vibrant routes that connected East and West in the mid-19th century. It is a testament to the and of the Ceylonese of the period, and is a example of the cultural exchange that took place between the two regions. The writing slope is a reminder of the importance of trade and cultural , and of the that can be created when two come together.

20/10/2022

Set of 12 Bombay art deco armchairs with their original paint surface. 9 in light blue and 3 in light green.
India, circa 1950

Height 80 cm
Width 49 cm
Depth 61 cm
Height of Seat 48 cm

17/06/2022

Behind its Lucite panels, this 'aquarium' half giant table lighter tells the story of an unlikely victory and the incredible work of vet Colin Hetherton.

It’s 1955, Christmas Eve. A crate is delivered to the door of the Hethertons. It is a gift from the grateful owner of Nicholas Nickleby. Inside the crate is champagne, the owner clearly knew Hetherton’s taste. But amongst the bottles there is another object; a box containing an exceptionally unique table lighter.

Colin Hetherton studied at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh, alongside the likes of his friend and contemporary James Herriot. As a new young vet, he was asked upon a second opinion to tend to a horse that was injured and intended for the knacker’s yard. Despite the opinions of many that the horse was irreparable, Hetherton was able to carry out a successful operation. So successful in fact, that the horse Nicholas Nickleby went on to win the Royal Hunt Cup of 1955. Onlookers, as well as the Queen, witnessed an astonishing victory, a victory that would have never happened if not for Hetherton’s defying persistence and skill. A gift such as the Dunhill table lighter was the ideal reward for such great work and effort. Privately commissioned and completely unique, this lighter embodies the retro nostalgia of the 50s with a royal twist, and perhaps even a Dickensian one too. Dicken’s great friend and confidant Charles Smithson was based in Malton, Yorkshire, where his novel Nicholas Nickleby is partially set. Coincidentally Hetherton’s veterinary practice was also based in Malton where he received the injured Nicholas Nickleby, over a century after the great novel was serialised.

The full blog article is available at Nicholaswells.com

18/12/2021

Whether you are looking for last-minute gifts for loved ones or indeed for yourself or in search of a statement piece for your home, please see below some ideas from our collection.

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Best Season's Greetings from Nicholas Wells Antiques !

10/10/2021

Thomas Chippendale is famous for producing the most exceptional 18th-century furniture. This commode is magnificent and exceptional, it may well be by Thomas Chippendale.

A fine mid 18th century George III Chippendale commode of serpentine outline and richly figured mahogany with excellent patina, fitted with four graduated oak drawers retaining their original hardware, flanked by carved pilasters of fruiting vines, the whole raised on bold ogee bracket feet. Retaini...

02/06/2021

GILLOWS EXTENDING QUARTER SAWN OAK CIRCULAR TABLE

£POA

A fabulous and powerful mid-19th-century quarter-sawn oak centre table, now with custom made Corian extending leaves supported on the original slide-out bearers. The top supported on a substantial base with exceptionally carved ball and claw feet, the scales picked out in astonishing detail. 

Mentioned in the Gillows of Lancaster and London 1730-1840, S Stuart. Believed one of only 2 ever produced.

England, circa 1810 

Height 71cm 28 inches
Diameter with leaves 191cm 6 1/4Ft
#

25/05/2021

Our foray into 17th century still life photography with a selection of exceptional late 17th century Delft blue and white vases, the beautiful flowers from

05/02/2021

It's hard to find a really great pair of classic early 19th century library chairs. That's why we are so pleased to offer this incredible pair in solid rosewood. They are available to buy with worldwide shipping.

24/01/2021

Celebrated in the recent Boy made God exhibition at the Ashmolean museum, Antinous was Hadrian's favourite. Tragically he drowned in the Nile, and in doing so was elevated by Hadrian to the status of a god. There are 80 known busts / statues depicting Antinous. This one is after the original full-length statue in Pio-Clementine Vatican Museum, discovered in 1793 at the villa of Hadrian at Praeneste. 

19TH CENTURY STATUARY MARBLE BUST OF THE BRASCHI ANTINOUS AS DIONYSUS, SIGNED PUGE

£12,000

19th Century Statuary Marble Bust of Antinous as Dionysus, Signed Verso Puge

Height 19 1/2inches
Width 15 inches
Depth 10 inches

#1793