Lot Essay
Two chests with secretaire interiors conforming exactly to this unusual arrangement are shown in Gillows' Estimate Sketch Books (folios 0338, July 24th 1786, and 330, June 23rd 1788), the latter being of sattinwood [sic], top and fronts banded with purplewood and strung. The main handles on the present chest were also the firm's most popular model from 1785 to 1800 and are illustrated in S. Stuart, Gillows of Lancaster and London 1700-1840, London, 2008, vol. II, p.335. pl. b.