Vintage Art Deco Burr Walnut Cocktail Cabinet / Drinks Cupboard, c1930

A striking Art Deco cocktail cabinet dating to circa 1930, combining richly figured burr walnut with an exceptionally well-appointed fitted interior and elegant cabriole-legged stand.

The cabinet is particularly attractive across the front, with a pair of beautifully figured burr walnut veneered doors displaying swirling grain and warm golden colour. The burr panels are framed with contrasting walnut veneers, giving the façade a strong symmetrical appearance typical of quality inter-war cabinetmaking. A decorative brass escutcheon with key provides the finishing detail.

Below, the cabinet is raised on four elegant cabriole legs joined visually by a deeply carved apron. The scrolling acanthus and shell decoration introduces a Queen Anne Revival influence, an interesting contrast to the cleaner geometric form of the upper cabinet.

Opening the double doors reveals an impressive fitted cocktail interior, veneered in a warm contrasting timber and incorporating a large mirrored back. The interior has been designed specifically for entertaining, with raised bottle and glass storage areas, brass gallery rails, a fitted drawer with dovetailed construction and further open storage beneath.

Of particular interest are the removable gilt metal serving trays, one of which retains its original colourful label reading “A Woodmet Product – Made in England.” The trays have finely perforated surfaces and rounded corners and fit neatly into dedicated holders within the cabinet doors when not in use. These surviving original accessories add considerably to the cabinet’s appeal and completeness.

The mirrored interior would have reflected glassware, bottles and cocktail accessories when the cabinet was opened, creating the glamorous presentation associated with cocktail culture during the 1920s and 1930s.

A very decorative yet practical piece of English inter-war furniture, equally suited to use as a traditional cocktail cabinet, home bar or drinks cupboard.

Date: Circa 1930
Period: Art Deco / Inter-War
Origin: England
Material: Burr walnut and walnut veneers with brass and gilt metal fittings
Stock No: 2288

Dimensions:
Height: 1029 mm / 40.5 inches
Width: 941 mm / 37 inches
Depth: 470 mm / 18.5 inches

Condition

Presented in attractive vintage condition with a warm, established finish throughout. The burr walnut retains particularly good colour and figuring. Minor marks, rubbing and age-related wear are present as expected, adding to the character of the piece. The fitted interior, mirrored back, brass galleries, drawer and removable serving trays remain particularly appealing features.