Smith & Watson Chippendale Yew Wood Breakfront
Updated August 18, 2026
| Lot number | 227 |
| Estimate | 600.00 - 1,000.00 USD |
| Auction | AUGUST AUCTION |
| Date | August 22, 2026 at 12:00 PM EDT |
| Auction house | Big Shanty Auction |
| Location | Marietta, Georgia |
An impressive English Chippendale-style breakfront bookcase by Smith & Watson, model C-14, crafted in richly figured yew wood and displaying the maker’s characteristically refined interpretation of 18th-century English cabinet furniture. The substantial architectural form rises beneath a broken triangular pediment with central raised plinth and shaped openings, above a projecting molded cornice and four tall glazed doors fitted with decorative geometric astragal glazing; the upper cabinet opens to glass shelving for display, while the lower section is arranged with four paneled cupboard doors enclosing adjustable shelved storage. Warm, highly figured yew veneers lend the facade exceptional visual depth, particularly across the broad lower panels and door surrounds, with restrained molding emphasizing the strong symmetrical breakfront profile. The accompanying Smith & Watson catalog literature identifies this design as the C-14 Chippendale Yew Breakfront, made in England of figured yew wood and also formerly offered in mahogany; the pictured example closely corresponds to the present cabinet. Smith & Watson continues to specialize in traditionally constructed furniture inspired by Chippendale and other major English cabinetmaking traditions. Condition appears good overall with expected light surface wear, scattered scratches and minor finish abrasions from age and use; interiors show some dust and wear, and shelving configuration may vary between compartments, but the cabinet retains a handsome, well-preserved presentation.Keyhole on top double doors is jammed and shelves for bottom side doors are missing. Measures approximately 84 3/8"H x 59 1/2"W x 15 1/4"D.
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