Rare 17th Century Oak Chest of Drawers

Rare and striking Charles II oak chest of drawers of wonderful dry untouched surface having superb light oak colour and patina. With the unusual feature of a lift up lid to the top retaining original strap hinges, opening to reveal a shallow compartment. The front decorated with Shaped brackets, applied mouldings, fruitwood split turnings and jewels. The drawer linings are fabulous clean original examples, made in oak. Small amount added later to two of the feet. The handles replaced in keeping with the period are through the same holes as the originals, the escutcheons are original. The original early locks are extraordinary in the fact that they have an open section to the top rather than the usual metal plate hiding the works. A very honest example with lovely back boards and untouched golden underneath surface.