A 17th century oak panel - most probably part of an armoire

Central to this panel is an arcaded arch 'supported' by two four-step cornices atop incised columns. The ornamental use of arches was used particularly during the late 16th and 17th centuries

The middle of the arcaded panel is decorated with a typical 17th century lozenge framed by a concave border. As with the arcaded arches noted above, decorative lozenges are typical of the late 16th century and early 17th centuries

Above the arcaded arch is a nulled frieze. Nulled friezes were sometimes left to apprentices (or relatively unskilled journeymen) to produce as the repetitive nature of their production (and relatively simply form) was thought by some craftsmen to be below them. This is not the case here: the nulled frieze has been very competently produced with excellent symmetry and form.  

There are a few original nail heads in the panel

The reverse of the panel is moulded indicating that it was intended to be seen. This suggests that this is part of an armoire (a large cupboard used for storing clothes, weapons etc) the inside of the door being visible when the armoire was opened

The front of the panel has been painstakingly dry scraped and cleaned to remove the 19th century stain. No chemicals were used - this has been a labour of love and has taken many hours,but this panel deserved to be restored. I found it languishing in the back room of an antiques shop collecting dust - together with a wider panel which I am listing separately. The original 17th century oak surface has been re-established with two coats of a very good quality wax applied to it and it really is a stunning piece of 17th century design and execution. 

Condition: good - commensurate with the age of the item. There is a repair to the top right of the panel as shown in one of the photographs (indicated by the blue arrow). This is one of those repairs that when you know it is there you see it, but it is not immediately obvious due to the amount of carving on the front surface

I am afraid that due to its size this is for collection only from Buntingford (East Herts SG9) but I am very happy to liaise with a courier of your choice if you are unable to collect this panel yourself 

Please see my other items which are predominantly 18th and 19th century in date