An Anglo-Ceylonese ebony and inlaid centre table, Galle District circa 1840

with a hexagonal top inlaid with exotic woods above a carved border, on leaf carved scroll supports, with a platform base and scroll feet

In good overall condition with minor old surface marks and scratches. The veneers on the top around the specimen woods are lifting slightly in places and there are some age and shrinkage cracks. There has been some considerable restoration of a rather crude standard to the chequer inlay adjacent to the specimen woods. There have been some minor loses to the bone or ivory inlaid borders. Minor chips to the base. Fitted with a drawer which appears to be contemporary. To discuss this lot in greater detail please call Edward Rising or David Macdonald on 0207 293 5107 or 0207 293 5507.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This table is closely related to a design by Thomas King, a drawing for which is illustrated in his book - 'The Modern Style of Cabinet Work Exemplified', 1829, fig. 68. It is interesting to note the far reaching influence of published furniture designs throughout the Empire. This particular design is linked with cabinet making from the Galle district, an area where inlay featuring specimen woods is a characteristic.

For further information and illustrations of similar tables see, Amin Jaffer, Furniture From British India and Ceylon, London, 2001, pp. 372-373