Lot 19
  • 19

A George IV mahogany library table circa 1825, in the manner of Gillows

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 GBP
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Description

  • Giltwood (gilt-pine), marble
  • 78cm. high, 140cm. wide, 150cm. deep; 2ft 6in.,. 4ft 7in., 4ft. 11in.
the banded and ebony strung tooled leather-lined rounded rectangular top with a moulded brass edge above three frieze drawers to each long side and the shorter sides with false drawers, raised on reeded turned tapering legs and an incurved platform base

Condition

This is a fantastic piece of furniture but like so much in the collection would benefit from some gentle restoration and repair. Losses to veneers. Age cracks. Losses to brass handles. Scratches and old marks.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Whilst this commanding library table remains unattributed, several elements of its design relate to the output of Gillows of Lancaster and London, the renowned firm of cabinet-makers. The first of these are the finely cast gilt-brass draw handles which incorporate a typically Gillows rectangular shaped bail. Interestingly, the rectangular bail and rosette form backplate seem to be an amalgamation of two patterns illustrated in an anonymous early 19th century metalware catalogue (fig. 1), which would surely have been known to the firm. The second distinctively Gillows feature are the boldly reeded legs. These appear on a number of documented pieces from one of Gillows most important commissions for William Powell, 2nd Baron Bolton (1782-1850) at Hackwood Park, including a fine brass inlaid library table with a similarly incurved plinth base.