Glass-fronted bookcase, walnut with brass mounts, English, 1720-1740

Glass-fronted bookcase on stand of veneered walnut with brass mounts. The upper stage has two glazed doors, of which each has four panels, the topmost of which has a trefoil arch. On either side of them are fluted pilasters carrying a plain architrave. The stand is fitted with three drawers, the central one placed higher than the other two. It stands on cabriole legs.

Bequeathed by Arnold Duer Sapsworth

Walnut cabinet, gift of Mr A A Sapsworth, London


R.P. 63/1586 (filed with 63/2275)

29/12/47 minute paper, Thorpe to Edwards
reports on his inspection of Sapsworth's dole cupboard and makes note of other furniture of interest including:
"olive-wood glaze cupboard, on legged substructure. I liked the wood colour and proportions. W and M. features"

5/5/48 letter, Sapsworth to Edwards
states he will bequeath, among other furniture, a "walnut bookcase".

30/8/63 letter, Barclays to Ministry of Education
quotes Sapsworth's will in which he bequeaths to the V & A
"Bookcase on stand with cabriole legs and square top"

25/9/63 minute, Hayward to the Director
reports on his inspection of the bequeathed articles and notes:
"The bookcase is probably likely to find its way to circ.".

On loan to Torre Abbey, Torquay, 1964-2012.

CIRC.67-1964