At Mauleverer we believe that the furniture should speak for itself, with the minimum of modern intervention. Most early English oak furniture combines robust construction with sound materials, so that many pieces survive in wonderful condition despite centuries of use. It is this combination of functional practicality with the beauty of well-patinated wood which explains the enduring appeal of early oak.
Our stock encompasses tables of all kinds, panel-back and caned chairs, chests and coffers, press-cupboards and dressers. Each item embodies a rich cultural heritage, drawn from diverse regional and international influences, and reflecting the movement of people, goods and ideas in a dynamic period of English history.
Only the best and most original furniture is accepted. While we consider it important that furniture is bought primarily for enjoyment, we are also aware that many collectors regard high quality English furniture as a form of long-term investment. John Andrews' British Antique Furniture Price Guide and Reasons for Value (Antique Collectors' Club, 2005) provides useful documentation on the good investment performance of early oak furniture over the last twenty years.
Two excellent books on period furniture are Victor Chinnery's 'Oak Furniture: The British Tradition' and 'English Furniture 1660 - 1714: from Charles II to Queen Anne' by Adam Bowett.