Early 18th-Century English Walnut Bureau Commode with pull-out writing slide

England, circa 1725

A finely proportioned early 18th-century English walnut bureau commode, distinguished by its restrained Baroque architecture and elegant functionality. The rectangular molded top above a pull-out writing slide fitted with a leather inset and delicate gilt tooling, over four graduated drawers veneered in richly figured walnut, each fitted with period pierced brass escutcheons and bail handles.

The case is raised on low, integrated bracket feet, lending the piece a grounded yet refined presence. The dramatic walnut veneer—particularly evident across the long drawers—exhibits the deep, organic figuring prized in English cabinetmaking of the early 18th century. Constructed in solid walnut with oak secondary woods, the commode reflects the robust craftsmanship and disciplined proportions characteristic of English furniture of the period.

Both utilitarian and architectural in character, this bureau commode exemplifies the transition from storage chest to functional writing furniture.