Bonhams oak auction highlights its enduring appeal
Bonhams oak auction takes place next month, with The Oak Interior sale once again highlighting the enduring appeal of period oak furniture and its timeless character and sense of history.
And while oak furniture may have been in the doldrums in recent years, could now be the time to buy for collectors and those looking for standout pieces that can provide a stunning focal point in modern interiors?
For some industry watchers, Bonhams oak auction will be a barometer for the current market and a chance to see whether demand is returning.
We pick out five key pieces from Bonhams’ sale here, with a more in-depth appraisal of oak’s fortunes by antiques expert John Andrews in the upcoming issue of Antique Collecting magazine – subscribe here.
An unusual mid-17th century joined oak, parquetry and marquetry-inlaid court cupboard, with open base, Yorkshire, c. 1650, estimated at £7,000-£10,000
A pair of Charles II joined oak backstools, Derbyshire/South Yorkshire, c.1675, estimated at £800-£1,200
An interesting Charles II joined oak and elm side table, c.1680, estimated at £4,000-£6,000
An early 18th-century oak tripod table, Welsh Borders, c. 1700-20, estimated at £800-£1,200
A mid-17th century joined oak and marquetry-inlaid panel-back open armchair, Yorkshire, c. 1640-60 and later, estimated at £1,500-£2,000