Early-19th century hardwood vargueno – £16,000 at Chiswick Auctions.
Nearly 90% of the 113 lots sold to total more than £190,000, topped by a hardwood vargueno.
Based on the finest furniture of the Nasrid dynasty, last of Spain’s Moorish rulers, this one was made in early-19th century Spain to cater for demand for all things Eastern at the dawning of Orientalism.
Inlaid with mother-of-pearl, bone and ivory marquetry, the 15in (38cm) wide cabinet on an 18in (45cm) tall desk was carved with Nasrid motifs and decorative and calligraphic bands.
The interior was inspired by the Sala de los Reyes at the Alhambra with intricately pierced and carved polylobed arches
Estimated at £6000-8000, it sold to a North African buyer for £16,000.
