Fine 19th Century Gillows Brass Mounted Mahogany Pedestal Desk

A very fine a rare mid-19th century Gillows brass mounted mahogany pedestal / partners desk with provenance from Lord Berners estate. Having a Warring and Gillow Ltd, Removal and Warehouse Department label to the underside.

English circa 1860.

The rectangular mahogany top with lobed corners and conforming inset rounds being enclosed by a caddy top moulded brass banding, with a gilt tooled faded green shaped leather inset gilt writing surface. The frieze having one long recessed drawer and two short drawers above three further graduated drawers all with recessed brass moulded panels, brass escutcheons and locks stamped I. Cadwallader London.

The pedestals and frieze having recessed brass panels to both sides whilst the front and backs being flanked by two brass fluted columns terminating on ring turned toupie feet with brass mounts and sabots.

The reverse side being mirrored with false drawers to the frieze with single doors to each pedestal below which each open to reveal and single shelf.

Offered in excellent condition having been carefully restored using traditional methods.

The form of this desk conforms with a design in the ‘Gillow Furniture Designs 1760-1800’, 1995 by Lindsay Boynton, illustration 21 Library Table, 1792. The image is at the end of our images showing a striking resemblance having the columns to each corner of the pedestal which is an extremely rare design.

Also in Geoffrey Beard and Judith Goodison book, ‘English Furniture 1500-1840’, 1987, p. 276, illustration 3. This desk is described as being ‘based on a typical Gillow model.’

Currently on the market is another brass bound desk of very similar form with brass work reminiscent to ours having the locks stamped Gillow. Along with the fact this writing desks locks are from London makers which would presume a London cabinet making firm and the sheer quality of this desk are all signs associated with Gillows.

Lastly the desk bears Warring and Gillow Ltd, Removal and Warehouse Department label to the underside which would confirm the maker. This desk would have been purchased from Gillows and then at a later date the owners would have returned to Gillows (which would have now been changed to Warring and Gillows from 1897) to resale/store/move.

Gillows of Lancaster establish by Robert Gillow in the 18th Century are renowned for being the most celebrated of all English furniture makers. Articles made by Gillows are extremely desirable and sought after with the firm being known for their exceptional craftsmanship and use of quality timber, most of which they imported themselves.

Provenance.

Lord Berners estate Farringdon house.

Footnotes.

Lindsay Boynton, ‘Gillow Furniture Designs 1760-1800’, 1995, illus. 21.

Geoffrey Beard and Judith Goodison, ‘English Furniture 1500-1840’, 1987, p. 276, illus. 3.

Dimensions

Width 60 inches – 152.5cm

Height 30 ¼ inches – 77cm

Depth 31 ¾ inches – 81cm

Knee Height 23 ½ inches – 59.5cm

Loveday Antiques is a family run business originally established since 1969 in London.

Now in its second generation, Loveday Antiques specialises in an eclectic mix of 18th to 20th Century European furniture and works of art, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness and colour.

As proud members of BADA & LAPADA, the largest association for professional art and antique dealers in the United Kingdom and members of CINOA, the worldwide association for antique dealers you can buy from us with 100% confidence and reassurance as we are committed to upholding and abiding by the strict standards of each association.

Our clients can rest assured that each item is as described and photographed.

All Items are sold with 100% satisfaction 14 day money back guarantee, return delivery will be charged for.

We deliver within the UK for usually between £60-£80 and ship worldwide with professional bespoke crating via air to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

Delivery within the mainland UK will usually be with 7 to 14 days but please allow up to 28 days. We also ship worldwide with a professional bespoke crating service and large International couriers via air and sea to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

GOODS

All items listed are in excellent condition having been restored using traditional methods by experienced cabinet makers and polishers keeping the original colour and patina wherever possible.

Please bear in mind you may find the usual markings with antique furniture that are commensurate with age which all add to beauty and uniqueness of the item.

VIEWINGS

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