Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase attributed to George Smith

Early 19th Century English breakfront library bookcase. Circa 1826-1830.

This fantastic piece is in a well-figured mahogany veneer, with a wonderfully rich patina and figuring. 

The upper section has glazed doors with arched and anthemion details. The lower section offers four doors which are framed with four columns featuring carved foliate capitals. 

Arched details are repeated to the side doors and the three long drawers, which feature fine flare veneers. 

This majestic bookcase is attributed to George Smith, as depicted in The Cabinet Maker and Upholsterer's Guide, Drawing Book and Repository of New and Original Designs for Household Furniture.

George Smith (1786-1826) is considered one of the key designers of the Regency period despite no firm evidence of a cabinet-making business in his name. 

He published three very influential furniture design books in the first quarter of the 19th Century. In these works, he speaks with great admiration of Thomas Hope, and his desire to make Hope's designs more accessible. 

Smith's designs reflect the melting pot of influences that were seen in Regency period furniture, from the classical motifs of the ancient world right through to Gothic and Chinese styles. 

This bookcase has a magnificent presence and is the perfect feature piece for a large room. 

Dimensions Of Bookcase:

Width: 229cm

Height: 236cm

Depth: 64.5cm at deepest, including the breakfront

Side Dimensions:

Side Depth: 55cm

Height at the side (where it is lower than the centre): 223.5cm

Internal Dimensions:

Centre Breakfront Shelves Depth: 25.5cm

Side Bay Shelves Depth: 15.5cm