A George III mahogany serving table circa 1760

possibly by Alexander Peter, with a rectangular white veined marble top above a gadroon-carved frieze, on square legs with blind-fret carving

This is in overall good condition. The marble is probably the original. It has minor chips and scratches consistent with age. Minor chips and scratches. Joints loose.
"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 serving table with its blind fret carved ornament to the legs and boldly carved spandrels relates to a mahogany serving table in Dumfries House, known to be by Alexander Peter, illustrated in the sale catalogue for Dumfries House, Christie`s London, 12th July 2007, lot 71.  The Dumfries House `sideboard table' is the earliest documented piece of Scottish furniture executed to a design from Chippendale`s Director. The fret-carved legs and frieze show a fusion of Chinoiserie and Gothic motifs which reflects Chippendale`s `Modern' style which replaced the `Roman' style of table. Some of these details together with unusually boldly carved spandrels can also be clearly seen in the present table.

Alexander Peter was the son of James Peter of Chaple. He was registered as apprentice to James Brownhill on 16th December 1713. Peter completed his apprenticeship in 1728. In 1728 he was admitted as burgess and over the next year booked three journeymen in his name with the Incorporation of Mary`s Chapel.  Between 1731 and 1749 Peter registered thirty seven further journeymen with Mary`s Chapel. Peter lived above his shop in Horse Wynd from at least 1752 until 1772 when he sold his business. He was extensively involved with furnishing Dumfries House and also Hopetoun House,  the two great commissions of the age, in Scotland.