19th Century Gainsford & Co London Linen Press on Chest

Description

A glorious and a bit unusual large scale, refined English country house pine linen press (or housekeeper’s cupboard) by Gainsford … more A glorious and a bit unusual large scale, refined English country house pine linen press (or housekeeper’s cupboard) by Gainsford & Co., of London, England.

Hand-crafted, dating to the early 19th (possibly late 18th) century, the impressive Gregorian period two-piece antique cabinet, circa 1815, retaining the original, elaborate faux marquetry hand painted decoration and trim, with beautiful, warm, original patina finish, enhanced with charming antique character and distressed wear.

Having a substantial hand chamfered carved, shaped, stepped molded removable cornice overlooking the oversized rectangular case upper cabinet, with two large recessed arched paneled cupboard doors adorned in intricate hand painted simulated contrasting marquetry work. The double doors open to reveal a large and spacious interior fitted with four pull-out sliding tray drawers, offering incredible storage opportunities and easy access.

The lower tier simply a large chest of drawers, fitted with four deep graduated drawers, two smaller over two full width drawers for even more storage space and flexibility. The drawers feature fine quality dovetail joinery and reinforced bottom panels, accessed by elegant white porcelain knob hardware. All rising over a thick plinth base, completing the classic clean lines and imposing, unpretentious presence.

Signed, stamped maker's mark to verso, reads: "Gainsford & Co., Cabinet Makers and Upholsterers, Boro, London, SE"

Provenance:
Acquired from the highly curated contents of antique dealers, Ed and Jane Grant, who retired after four decades in the industry. The couple supplied both their Washington metro based antique shop, Grant Antiques, and their very fine quality Connecticut showcase, E.J. Grant Antiques, with domestic and imported pieces. World travelers who especially loved European antiques, sourced their merchandise during their frequent buying trips to Europe and Asia and included purchases originating in France, the British Isles, Italy, Spain, and beyond.

"We have never been content with our established route. England is our first and favorite country and furniture. Then we discovered France. Then Holland and Belgium. On to Italy, Spain, then Scandinavia and later China. As always, bits and pieces from the U.S.," explains Jane in her memoirs of their 40 years as antiques dealers.

Dimensions: (approx)
83" High, 47" Wide, 22" Deep

Very good condition. Original antique condition. Presents wonderfully. Strong, sturdy and structurally sound, with beautiful, elegantly aged patina over the whole. Warm, rustic, organically distressed, chippy paint finish, worn, with light scratches, checking, nicks, small losses, consistent with age and use. less