John Cobb serpentine commode tops estimate by 46%

A George III era John Cobb serpentine commode has sold for $274,430 at Bonhams

A George III era serpentine commode made by John Cobb has beaten its estimate by 46% at auction.

The stunning mid to late 18th century piece, one of the finest examples of the renowned English furniture maker's work, sold for £175,250 against a high estimate of £120,000 at Bonhams on June 13.

Its estimate-beating price can be attributed to a growing interest among collectors for top end furniture.

"The furniture market has become a trophy market. People are more inclined to have one really good piece as a talking point than a 19th century dining room," Peter Horwood, a furniture expert at Christie's, recently told Apollo magazine.

John Cobb - cabinet maker to the king

Cobb was awarded the royal warrant by George III to provide furniture to the royal family, a seal of approval that collectors still admire today.

The Fine English Furniture and Works of Art sale also featured a Queen Anne walnut miniature doll's armchair, which sold for £17,500.

Its considerable rarity - two other examples reside in the V&A Museum collection such is their importance - helped it more than double its £8,000 high estimate.

A £25,000 chimneypiece from Lord Nelson's home also featured.

Fergus Lyons, Bonhams' director of furniture, said: "The overall results were very positive with keen interest translating into above-estimate results on the rare and important lots.

"I am particularly pleased with the outcome for the Cobb commode which demonstrates the market's long-term confidence in exceptional pieces by leading cabinet makers from early George III era."

You can capitalise on the market's desire for top of the range pieces today. Paul Fraser Collectibles has a circa 1790 John Linnell Demi-Lune Commode currently available for £125,000.

You can view all our period English furniture here.

Recent and related articles

·  Lord Nelson chimneypiece auction makes $38,700 in London | 14 June 2012

·  Are you making 'sub-optimal decisions'? | 13 June 2012

·  Queen Anne maple dresser makes $9,500 at fine art auction | 11 June 2012

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Images: Bonhams