A pair of George III mahogany serpentine commodes circa 1760, possibly by William Hallett

each serpentine front with a brushing slide and four long drawers flanked by fluted canted angles, the handles apparently original

Comparative Literature: A. Coleridge, Furniture History Society Journal, 1965, ` A Reappraisal of William Hallett' pp.11-14

Generally in very good condition. The brushing slides are scratched from use. Typical old marks and scratches. A very example of a type.
"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 present pair of commodes can be compared with a cabinet signed by William Hallett and sold Sotheby`s New York, Important English Furniture, Ceramics and Decorations, 21st and 22nd October 1999, lot 440. This is the only known signed piece by William Hallett. The distinctive handles with their finely cast lions` masks on this piece are identical to those on the present lot suggesting a strong link between the pieces.

William Hallett ( c.1707-81) of Great Newport Street ( 1732-53) and later St. Martin`s Lane ( after 1753) was one of the most fashionable cabinet makers working in the second quarter of the 18th century and was possibly the partner of the firm Vile and Cobb. Because of his inheritance, successful property ventures and his marriage to a cousin with a large dowry, Hallett amassed a fortune and was able to spend less time involved with furniture making, delegating those duties to his son, William Jr. His clients included the 4th Duke of Beaufort at Badminton, Augusta, Princess of Wales, 1st Earl of Leicester at Holkham, Sir Matthew Featherstonhaugh at Uppark, 2nd Earl of Litchfield at Ditchley Park, 7th Earl of Pembroke at Wilton House, and Lord Anson whose bank credited Hallett`s account for £220 on November 24, 1756. The present lot could well have been commissioned by one of these clients for a bedroom.

This pair of commodes is virtually identical to an example, bearing the same handles and similarly figured timber sold The Property of a Company, Christie's London, 6 July 2000, lot 146, £24,675.