Drop-leaf Chest Of Drawers In Walnut And Walnut Burl. Veneto, 18th Century

Drop-leaf chest of drawers
in walnut and walnut burl

Veneto, 18th century
111 x 119 x 58 cm

The piece, in excellent overall condition, features the typical 18th-century drop-leaf shape with a slanted top, a three-drawer chest above a writing compartment closed by a fold-down top, secured by an original lock and key. The structure rests on a molded base with shaped bracket feet, a common solution in Venetian carpentry in the early 18th century.

The surface is entirely covered in walnut burl with a "book" effect—the mirror-like grains are arranged in pairs to create symmetrical geometric compositions with a striking decorative effect—surrounded by solid walnut fillets that define the panels and edges. The fold-down top features a central diamond-shaped design created by the radial arrangement of the burl, framed by a double fillet. The color scheme is warm, with alternating honey, amber, and dark brown tones that enhance the natural beauty of the grain.

The three drawers in the lower body, sloping in height from bottom to top according to the construction practice of the time, feature cast brass arched handles with scrolled rosettes and ornate lock escutcheons.

The four drawers inside the drop-leaf are arranged two by two on either side of the cabinet, separated by an open compartment.

The molded profiles separating the drawers and framing the writing surface lend the overall effect a sober and orderly rhythm, typical of Venetian production outside the lagoon.