A REGENCY INLAID BURR ELM, EBONY, SATINWOOD AND PARCEL-GILT SOFA TABLE CIRCA 1820

the underside with paper label PICKFORD'S LTD.

Overall in good condition, the top with some small losses to ebony stringing with some patches to veneers with areas of inpainting, some age cracks to veneers of platform base, some losses and small areas of inpainting to the gilding, some age cracks to drawer linings, overall with some chips and patches to the veneers with old marks, scratches, scuffs and bruises consistent with age and use, brass casters slightly loose.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The combination of richly figured veneers with the softly molded carved and gilt detail as seen on this sofa table, may be compared to the documented work of Morel and Seddon for George IV at Windsor Castle in the late 1820s; see Hugh Roberts, For the King's Pleasure, 2001.

Morel and Seddon's partnership was primarily formed to carry out the Windsor commission, Nicholas Morel having been chosen as the furniture maker in charge of re-furnishing the Castle.  The furniture designed for George IV displays the extensive use of not only richly figured rosewood veneers, but also the lighter colored woods such as satinwood, birch and amboyna, both in the solid and as decorative veneers. Many of the carved elements and moldings were oil gilded which provides a flatter finish which cannot be burnished.