A matched pair of William IV rosewood centre tables circa 1830

after designs of Gillows of Lancaster, the top with a scroll carved gallery and with a drawer to each end, on turned column supports joined by a tuned stretcher, on cabriole legs with concealed castors, minor differences to carving and measurements

Both are in good condition. Some minor chips and scratches consistent with age and use. Minor repairs to bead mouldings. They have been re-finished. Some minor age cracks to the foot of ne column. For further information on this Lot, please contact the English Furniture Department on 00 44 (0) 207 293-5470.
"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."

The designs for these tables are included among Gillows Estimate and Drawings and Costings for 1826 ( number 3480 and 3496- see illustration) and were executed for a firm of cabinet-makers and upholders named Ferguson & Co.., recorded at 117 Oxford Street in Kelly`s London Commercial Directory of 1822. James William Ferguson served his apprenticeship with Gillows in Lancaster before moving to London and forming a partnership with another ex- employee of the firm Henry Whiteside.

The designs for these tables are clearly conceived in the then newly revived rococo style, and are generally influenced by Chippendales`s Gentleman and Cabinet-maker`s Director ,  which  was re-issued in the early 1830s by John Weale. Gillows were working in the rococo style at least a decade before Weale`s publication, however for they supplied suites of exuberant rococo inspired seat-furniture for Tatton Park and Belvoir Castle in the early 1820s.