A superb miniature apprentice-made mahogany chest of drawers, dating from the mid 19th Century. It is a charming piece with four long drawers, each with their original turned wooden knobs. The sides and top of the chest are decorated with intricate geometric marquetry work and it stands on four small turned bun feet. The chest is full of details and is a real expression of the skill of the apprentice - the drawer fronts have decorative triangular patterns created by using different cuts of wood, the drawers are flanked by small columns with turned ball detail and there is a triangular geometric inlaid border below the drawers. It is very well made and each drawer is beautifully made with hand-cut dovetail joints.
It is in good original condition and is a rare and unusual piece. The wood has a wonderful rich patina and the piece is sturdy and the joints are strong. The drawers are generally clean and tidy and all open smoothly. There are some general signs of age and use and minor marks and light knocks but nothing detrimental. There is some slight shrinkage and lifting between some of the inlaid panels on the top but overall it displays very well.
