FINE FEDERAL INLAID AND FIGURED MAHOGANY AND SATINWOOD PEMBROKE TABLE, New York, Circa 1795

By repute President Chester A. Arthur, New York;
Green Valley Auctions, Virginia, November 13, 2004, lot 246

America Museum, New Market, Virginia.

Surface and legs with usual scratches and marks. Drawer with replaced runners. Hardware stamped "HJ". Retains original cast brass square cups but lacking wheel assemblages for casters. Small scattered patches to veneer throughout. Secondary wood is poplar. Width open 40 1/2 in.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This table is an example of Hepplewhite style inlaid furniture made in New York City during the Federal period. Major cabinetmakers, such as William Whithead, were attracted to New York as it rose as a center for industrialization and commerce during the late 18^th century. These cabinetmakers, fueled by a high level of competition and inspired largely by English cabinetmakers, such as Hepplewhite, produced furniture with simple lines and sophisticated inlays. Following those trends, this Pembroke table uses lighter colored inlays to emphasize the complex geometry of the drop leaves. The ornamental satinwood astragal inlays on the drawer and pilasters are typical of New York designs.