A Superb and highly Important Queen Anne green lacquer bureau bookcase - Apter-Fredericks Antique Furniture, Memorable Pieces Dealer

A Superb and highly Important Queen Anne Green lacquer double domed bureau bookcase. With outstanding gilt chinoiserie decoration of the finest quality. The mirrored doors and fall front opening to reveal cupboards, pigeon-holes and drawers, all similarly decorated. The bookcase retaining its original mirror plates, engraved brass handles and locks.

THE DECORATION.
Neptune rides in his chariot, which is drawn by three Hippocampi or Seahorses, through the rolling waves.A number of classical figures, all scantily draped with flowing robes/togas. One is possibly Diana, Goddess of Hunting as she carries a bow and quiver of arrows.
Oriental scenes and landscapes predominate, including pagodas, courtiers, peasants, plants, flowers and a variety of birds and insects including ducks, geese and butterflies. One of the most splendid motifs are the pair of dragons on the inside of the fall. Quite fierce in appearance.
On the outside of the fall a female figure rides in a chariot drawn by three lions. At the front and rear of the procession is a horseman. They are moving towards a god with four heads and several pairs of arms
seated in the lotus position on top of a pedestal.
Below the fall, the decoration continues with more animals, pagodas, birds and two boats. On the bottom drawer is perhaps the most excng scene. A man lies pinned to the ground by a lion, while his two friends try to rescue him.
The decoration of this bookcase is exceptional for both its quality and its variety. Furthermore it is rarely found in such good condition.