A George III mahogany clothes press, by Benjamin Crook, circa 1770

A George III mahogany clothes press, by Benjamin Crook, circa 1770, the moulded edge above a panel of panelled doors opening to a shelved interior, the stand with a pair of drawers, on square section legs and castors, bearing a trade label to the interior of one drawer for 'All sorts of, Cabinet Work, Mahogany Tables, Looking Glasses Chairs &c, Made & Sold by Benj. Crook, at ye George & White Lyon, on ye South Side of St, Paul's Church Yard, LONDON', 137cm high, 127cm wide, 64cm deep

Benjamin Crook, cabinet maker and joiner, traded from 1732 until retiring and holding an auction of his stock in 1748. His son, also named Benjamin Crook, then continued the business at the same premises until 1771. Both are known to have used a circular label.

As stated in Marked London Furniture 1700-1840 (Christopher Gilbert, 1996) 'the four Labelled pieces (by Benjamin Crook) so far recorded show that his work was of excellent quality'.

Condition Report:
Marks, scratches and abrasions comensurate with age and use old splits and chips. some natural fading. The colour may be improved by simple sympathetic wax polishing by a professional restorer. Locks and handles all appear original. The key is present that operates the lock. The leather mounted brass castors appear also original and bear expected wear for age. One interior shelf may be associated but has age. The trade label for Benjamin Crook appears entirely original and is in fair condition for its age. Please refer to additional images for visual reference to condition.