A Regency gilt-brass mounted and inlaid rosewood banded and ebonised brown oak octagonal centre table, circa 1805, in the manner of George Bullock

Glaisher & Nash, London, 1981

An attractive table in reasonable restored condition but would benefit from further attention. The gadrooned gilt-brass edge possibly later and with a raised edge, possibly to accommodate a glass top which is no longer present. Brass inlay and rosewood veneers to top lifting slightly in areas, The top with some deep scratches, movement to burr veneers and small circular patches consistent with age, use and restoration. Generally the surface is warping slightly and the table is of a slightly unsteady stance. The underside of the top secured with two baton supports. the legs with repairs, splits and lifting to brass inlay and veneers - notably there is a crude restoration to a loss on a gilt-brass rosette. feet formerly with castors.
"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 table, with its richly figured brown oak top banded with a bold ‘antique’ inspired foliate brass inlay, recalls the work of George Bullock (d. 1818), who struck a patriotic note in his furniture through the use of native British woods. A related octagonal library table, on a similar four-legged base and probably by Bullock, was supplied to the Earl of Mansfield at Scone Place, Scotland (see Anthony Coleridge, ‘The Work of George Bullock, Cabinet-Maker, in Scotland’, Connoisseur, May-August 1965, p. 13, fig. 9).