Exceptional late Regency Gillows mahogany pedestal desk; by Thomas Myers of Gillows; of outstanding quality and good proportion. The rectangular crossbanded top with an ovolo moulded edge having a good tan leather writing surface with a gilt tooled edge enhanced by use and faded areas. The central drawer above the generous kneehole with scrolled corner brackets. The four graduating drawers to either side having the distinctive hinged locking pilasters, closing over the drawers' rebated edge, the bramah locks (stamped J Bramah Piccadilly, below a crown) concealed by a small sliding panel. All the drawers having excellent quality mahogany linings and retaining their original Gillow pattern rosewood knob handles. The sides of the desk having well figured mahogany inset panels with moulded edges. The extremely well finished back having a pair of arched panels in stunning flame mahogany. Raised on plinth bases with ovolo mouldings and retaining the original concealed large castors. The underside of the central drawer with the signature 'Thos Myers' who is recorded as a Gillow cabinet maker who worked for them in the 1830's. He made a davenport for Leighton Hall which was the home of the Gillows family at that period; and also two dressing tables for Parlington Hall, Yorkshire. An almost identical desk is illustrated in S Stuart 'Gillows of Lancaster and London' Volume II p.379; and another one sold in Christies London 29 April 2010 Lot 170 for £12,000.
(The images here unfortunately do not do the desk justice, with reflections)
English circa 1830
Excellent condition having a good rich colour the reverse having a lovely natural, slightly faded colour. The original working bramah locks with keys.
Dimensions (ins) 54 wide x 30 deep x 32 high; kneehole 24.5 high x 22 wide
