A George III rosewood double sided library writing table circa 1800, in the manner of John McLean

with a morocco leather inset top above four frieze with drawers with cedarwood linings, the end supports with parcel gilt `milled' tablets

Sold Sotheby's London, Important English Furniture, 15 November 1996, lot 77.

Good overall, condition. With original morocco leather top which has marks and stains consistent with age and use. Handles appear original. The chanel-moulded edge of the top with later gilding. Minor old marks and scratches to rosewood. One drawer locked. No key available. Good colour and patina throughout.
"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 combination of rosewood and `milled' giltwood panels is characteristic of the work of the leading early 19th century furniture maker John McLean of Marylebone Street, London and is paralleled in a number of pieces with which this is closely associated, examples of which  are illustrated in Simon Redburn, `John McLean and Son', Furniture History, vol. XIV, 1978, pls. 40b and 45a. An almost identical table sold Sotheby's, Tyninghame, East Lothian, Scotland, 28 September 1987, lot 73 and subsequently Sotheby's, London, 22 April 1994, lot 90.