An elegant late George III - early Regency period sofa table in Spanish mahogany, in the manner of Gillows of Lancaster and London,

English, circa 1810.

Why we like it

Superb quality, great design and handsome colour. Cedarwood drawer linings are rare for tables and were only used by the first-rate cabinetmakers. This versatile occasional table is perfectly proportioned to make a functional centre or side table; very useful at the foot of a bed or at the back of a sofa.

This form of leg, sometimes referred to as 'spider leg', was a common feature the Gillows tables in 1790's to early 1800's, as was the subtle, line-inlay decoration, as seen on a table supplied to Stephen Tempest of Broughton Hall, illustrated Susan E. Stuart, Gillows of Lancaster and London 1730 - 1840, p. 264, pl. 268. The use of cedarwood and the distinctive arch-shaped half-stretchers in construction are also characteristic features of the Gillows firm.

Useful broad and deep proportions, just the right length of the flaps.

Provenance: with Ward Antiques LLC, probably in the 1970's