A fine George III oak dresser and rack, circa 1780 to 1800, in the vernacular Welsh or West Country tradition, of generous proportions and wonderfully honest, rustic character. The upper plate rack has a plain moulded cornice above three graduated open shelves, each with a turned and slightly bowed rail for displaying plates and dishes, retaining the simple, well-worn finish of a rack that has seen real use. The rectangular base has a thick, planked top with a moulded edge, above a run of three frieze drawers fitted with brass swan-neck handles and simple escutcheons. The whole stands on four sturdy square legs joined by a deep pot board below, which provides useful additional storage and display space. The oak has aged to a deep, dark, almost black-brown colour with a dry, softly glowing patina, and the surface carries the knocks, scuffs and gentle wear you would hope to see on a piece of genuine age and country origin. At this size it is wonderfully adaptable, equally at home in a kitchen, dining room or hallway, where it offers generous storage and a magnificent backdrop for china, pewter or books. Solid, characterful and full of rural charm, a most appealing dresser in good original condition.
