Box House Antiques Ltd. Corner Cupboards

An English early-eighteenth century red japanned bow-front corner cupboard, or cabinet, George II-period, circa 1730. In superb condition throughout. Retaining its original butterfly hinges, with a period key and working lock. These are usually encountered with a black background, however when in red these examples of japanning are much sought after. Many were produced domestically, often by talented female members of the family. Note the charming English interpretations in the decorated surfaces. An unusual subject can be seen in the base, a hunter on horseback with sword drawn, confronting a mythological beast, probably representing a tiger with mandarins posing amongst stylised pagodas, rooftops and rockwork. Chinoiserie-decorated surfaces were extremely popular in the early part of the 18th century, almost reaching a craze among the upper classes wishing to demonstrate their fashionable status. There were several revivals of chinoiserie particularly in the first quarter of the 20th century, so caution is advised in one’s collecting. This type of decoration is also sometimes erroneously referred to as ''lacquer’'. The fashion icon Coco Chanel furnished her exquisite Paris apartments largely in the European chinoiserie taste. References: V & A – The development of English black japanning 1620-1820, A History of Japanning in England: Technique & Decoration. John Stalker and George Parker...

An early-18th century Coromandel lacquer corner cupboard or cabinet. This is rare - high quality Coromandel lacquer work (incised decoration) - not to be confused with the usual English japanned versions. This is also referred to as Bantam work, originating in Bantam, Dutch East Indies, and China, for export to the European market. The subject matter is of a major pavilion with numerous courtiers - most unusual to see only females - it has been suggested that they may be concubines to a Mandarin. All of high quality and in the sought-after and refined chinoiserie taste. In very good unrestored state, retaining vibrant colours and all its original hardware. This is a chic antique, and makes a lovely chinoiserie drinks cabinet...

A rare chinoiserie standing double corner cabinet, or cupboard. English, George I-period, ca 1720. Often erroneously referred to as lacquer work, this is japanned. Beautifully decorated with idyllic scenes of rockwork, pagodas, people, trees, birds, water, with bridges and a boat. This is a lovely and very useful addition to a room - where corners can present furnishing dilemmas - and this is a chic antique drinks cabinet. These have always been very hard to find, as opposed to the more usual Georgian hanging corner cupboards...