catalog text
GEORGE III MAHOGANY SERPENTINE PEDESTAL SIDEBOARD
England, circa last quarter of the 18th-century
Item # 906BNS05L
An unusual and most attractive pedestal sideboard from the George III period, this piece presents beautifully with a glowing ancient surface patina characterized by old staining, nearly black oxidized scratches and a gorgeous burnished shellac that showcases the overall cognac hue of the mahogany surfaces beautifully. It features an incredibly bold form made delicate by the dramatic undulation of its serpentine profile; the top conforms to this, projecting just slightly around all sides.
The face is hung with a single board central drawer flanked on either side by a series of rectangular drawers on either side in the pedestal ends. The upper right "drawers" are actually a single drawer within which is situated an original dovetailed oak removable box, ideal for storing wines lying down with a height of 12 1/2" and a width and depth of 14".
The left side of the case was altered, probably during the late 19th century, at which time a compartment was installed in the back and a prospect door added to the side; a hole was also made in the back and the lower two drawers were altered to receive it - the upper drawer in depth and the lower drawer in partial height.
The entire sideboard rests over gently splayed feet with a cupid's bow scrolled apron between them.
Measurements: 35 1/4" H x 28 1/2" D x 62 7/8" W
Condition Report:
In estate-found condition with extensive old surface restoration and old blemishes: numerous spots of staining to the top under an old glowing shellac finish; scuffs and scratches to surfaces throughout as expected, though these have mellowed nicely, many have turned black from oxidization and overall the blemishes have become a part of the finish sealed under fresh wax; veneers around the edge of the top with some patching/replacements including the front right corner of the top; numerous areas of veneer patching to the front and sides of the case, including the drawer faces, the vertical and horizontal dividers between drawers, around the scrolled apron and the feet; the "spandrels" in the open space between the pedestals have horizontal spliced repairs where they probably experienced some shrinkage cracking; the back of the case has some fresh wood applied horizontally (probably to heal shrinkage cracks) and the back middle foot supports are replaced; the small door and compartment on the left side of the case were added, probably late 19th century, and the lower two drawers on the left altered in structure to receive this compartment; original brasses; no keys, locks untested; original feet with extensive cracking/patching/wood loss along with some associated wax fillings and veneer patches.
Despite the lengthy condition notes, and as a result of the old restorations, the sideboard presents beautifully and is incredibly sturdy and strong and ready to place; we would recommend eventually patching the losses to the feet, though it is not necessary for form or function.