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

with a leather inset top with re-entrant corners above four frieze with drawers with cedarwood linings, the end supports with parcel gilt 'milled' tablets

Tyninghame House Sale, Sotheby's, 28-29th September, 1987, lot 73;
Sotheby's, London, 15 November 1996, lot 77

In overall reasonable condition. The inset leather top with signs of wear. The crossbanding with some sun bleaching and there are some losses to the ebonised border of the frieze. One handle has come off but is still with the piece and may require professional attention to reattach. There is some movement along the lines of construction causing the drawers not to be flush. The splayed legs are in good condition. Minor old marks and scratches commensurate with age and use.
"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, and the present lot compares closely to a number of pieces with which he is closely associated, examples of which are illustrated in Simon Redburn, 'John McLean and Son', Furniture History, vol. XIV, 1978, pls. 40b and 45a.