A FINE AND RARE GEORGE III FIGURED MAHOGANY GATE-LEG CARD TABLE OF DESIRABLE PROPORTIONS
On ball-and-claw feet with exquisite carved elements
England, circa 1760
28 13/16" H x 15 1/4" D x 32" W [closed]
28 1/8" H x 30 1/8" D x 31 7/8" W [opened]
An unusually good card table produced under the reign of King George III, almost certainly in London, the table features excellent proportions that are together slight and delicate. When closed, the table presents as a pier table with a depth of just 15 1/4", showcasing the very carefully chosen figured mahogany veneers and solid stock. The top is designed with subtle squared turrets, the integral edge crisply carved with a repeating motif of ribbons-and-florals, opening on original brass hinges to reveal a green baize lined card playing surface, the top supported over a single gating rear leg. The apron conforms to the profile of the top, the center with a single drawer hung with an original bail pull brass handle while the bottom edge is finished with an unusually bold applied gadrooned molding. Each leg transitions from the gadrooning into fabulous swirled acanthus carvings in the knees, these finely developed and clearly executed by a practiced hand over the gentle cabriole form of each leg terminating in crisp ball-and-claw feet. The table retains a rather old surface, this nearly black in some areas as the shellac has oxidized and crackled, high points relieving to a nearly ruby hue; overall the surface positively glows and is silky to the touch.
Provenance: Formerly with Jeremy, Ltd. of London (see advertisement enclosed), there acquired for a Private Collection in New York
Condition: Old surface under later shellac and wax, fine early color preserved with a fabulous patina; crackling and grime to the shellac layer; minor scuffs and wear indicators throughout. Original brass bail pull on drawer. Scuff to one foot. Small triangular veneer loss to corner of top. Various veneer patches and replacements throughout. Apparently untouched structure other than typical tightening of joints and minor repairs. Old but not original green baize card playing surface with sun-fading and discoloration in the center where an object protected it from the sun. No key, lock untested. A very fine example, ready to place.
ref. 603KDR26A
