A Regency brass-mounted and banded rosewood writing table, circa 1815, in the manner of John McLean

the three-quarter gallery leather-lined oblong top above three drawers within curved corners with lion mask and ring mounts, on twist-fluted turned tapering legs with brass collars

Probably John Fane, 10th Earl of Westmorland (1759-1841).

Thence by descent to Anthony Mildmay Fane, 13th Earl of Westmorland (1859-1922), sold at the Apethorpe Sale March 1904, bought by William Vere Reeve King-Fane of Fulbeck.

Thence by descent until sold, Sotheby's Olympia, The contents of Fulbeck Hall, Lincolnshire, 8 October 2002, lot 114.

Good overall condition. Lovely old (possibly original) leather which has accrued a beautiful rich patina. However there is inevitable perishing, wear and age cracks to the leather which appears to have been stabilised through polishing. Minor typical shrinkage lines to the rosewood crossbanding framing the leather inset top. Minor typical distortions to the gallery which is also slightly tarnished. Minor inevitable wear to the top edges of the frieze drawers through regular use. There is corresponding minor loss above the lock to the central frieze drawer. Minor restoration to banding of central frieze drawer. General old marks and scratches consistent with age and use. Exceptionally rich colour and patina.
"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 fine library table, which has strong affinities with those made by John McLean, originally formed part of the collection of furniture at Apethorpe, the seat of the Earls of Westmorland. It was probably commissioned by John, 10th Earl of Westmorland who famously eloped with Sarah, the daughter of Robert Child of Osterley Park, Middlesex. The Earl and Countess inherited Osterley on Robert Child's death. Here they introduced contemporary furniture into the great Adam house. It may be that this table formed part of that refurbishment and that it was subsequently moved to Apethorpe after the Earl's death in 1841. Osterley then passed not to his son, the next Earl, but by special remainder, to his daughter Sarah Sophie, wife of the Earl of Jersey. It is interesting to note that Lord Jersey and his wife also acquired furniture from McLean (see Simon Redburn 'John Maclean and Son', Furniture History Society, 1978, p. 31-37, which provides as an appendix the Maclean accounts to Lord Jersey).