English Regency Grecian Zebrawood Secretaire, London c.1810

Attributed to George Oakley (Active 1773–1840)

A superb and rare English Regency Grecian writing cabinet in richly figured zebrawood, with ebony, goncalo alves, and a beautifully fitted West Indian satinwood interior. This exceptional piece embodies the refined neoclassical taste of early 19th-century London craftsmanship.

The upper section features glazed doors enclosing adjustable shelves which is fully lined with the original royal blue velvet. The lower fall-front secretaire reveals a finely detailed satinwood interior with drawers, pigeonholes, and its original inkwells and keys intact. The secretaire desk top is adorned with its original tooled leather top in antique green with gilt keywork. The cabinet is further enriched by original ormolu mounts of exquisite quality—hallmarks of the best Regency period design. Lionhead knockers flank either side of the secretaire front. Gilt bronze half columns decorate both sides and the writing cabinet rests on ball feet.

This secretaire is attributed to George Oakley, one of London’s most innovative and fashionable cabinetmakers of the period, celebrated for his bold architectural forms and rich use of exotic veneers. It belongs to a small, highly sought-after group of architectural ormolu-mounted zebrawood writing cabinets, closely related to examples held in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

An outstanding example of Regency opulence and craftsmanship—where symmetry, exotic timbers, and gilt-bronze ornamentation unite to stunning effect.

Provenance: Ex Collection of Lord Wedgwood.

Measurements: H163 x W79 x D48, open D82cm