ENGLISH REGENCY CHINOISERIE DECORATED SOFA TABLE
Circa 1825, retailed by Morgan & Co during the early 20th century
Item # C103202 

A finely decorated sofa table of the Regency period, it has been beautifully embossed with an ebonized and lacquered chinoiserie display.  Reflecting a passion for the Orient during the early 19th century, the table shows rich scenes of figures by pagoda topped buildings and pavillions before mountainous landscapes walking through richly landscaped gardens under birds soaring overhead.  Corners and edges are embellished with floral displays and the medial stretcher is highlighted with bands of acanthus.  The columns of the table tenon directly into the frame and sabre legs tenon into the columns, these stretched by a symmetrically turned medial brace.  Beneath the legs are the original forged iron brackets, one with most of its original screws still retained; each leg terminates in a perfectly cast lion paw over brass castor.  In the frame, a pair of drawers easily draw in and out with teardrop pulls, the secondary woods painted black.

It is a relevant piece that presents a striking display of culture as perceived by the English during the period, allowing it to enrich a room both historically and visually; the stark blacks and angularity allow it to bring much needed depth to a more modern interior.

Measurements:  57” W x 24” D x 28 13/16” H [opened]; 37 3/8” W [closed]

Condition Report:
Old restorations, including a strengthening of the medial stretcher from the sides and associated inpainting, repairs to all four wings.  Slight shrinkage of the top leads to the wings projecting slightly when in closed position.  Old shrink cracks here and there throughout.  Locks untested, no key.  Some wiggle in the joints.  Painted surface has likely been enhanced and refreshed in the last century.