A spectacular highlight of the Americana section of Bonhams & Butterfields’ furniture and decorative arts sale on June 7, was a Chippendale chest of drawers, sold for $1,436,250, setting a record for the auctioneers.

The Richards family Chippendale mahogany block and shell chest, circa 1780, an example of American rococo cabinetry, brought more than twice its presale estimate, selling to Manhattan dealer Leigh Keno, who was bidding on behalf of a client.

Originally owned by New London, Conn., city treasurer and merchant Guy Richards (1747-1825), the chest has remained within that gentleman’s family and was offered on the market for the first time.

A complete review of the sale will appear in an upcoming issue.

-WD