Pair of coffers-on-stand 1813
Brass-inlaid tortoiseshell, gilt bronze and ebony | 34.5 x 56.5 x 41.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 21624
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A pair of coffers on stands of contre-partie Boulle marquetry of brass and red tortoiseshell. Each with a domed lid with a brass carrying handle. Male and female masks on the giltmetal lockplate to the front. The stand has an overhanging top with an ormolu rim, a frieze drawer with a female mask, square-in-section tapering legs joined by an undertier.
Provenance
Thomas Parker was established at 19 Air Street, Piccadilly from 1808-17 and then at 22 Warwick Street, Golden Square from 1817-27 and finally at 32 Warwick Street until 1830 after which date the firm closed. Thomas Parker specialised in the production of elaborate furniture of brass and tortoiseshell inlay after the style of the French ébéniste André-Charles Boulle. English cabinet makers used this style after the French Revolution then known as 'Buhl'. Parker worked originally for the Prince Regent's sister, Princess Elizabeth, and latterly for the Prince himself. On his trade card he described himself as 'Cabinet & Buhl Manufacturer to HRH the Prince Regent and Royal family'. Bought by George IV from Thomas Parker in January 1813 at a cost of £210. Benjamin Jutsham, the Prince Regent's Inventory Clerk at Carlton House noted the delivery of 'Two handsome Bhoule Coffers with Gilt Key Locks &'c mounted on Stands to Correspond ... sent in by Lord Yarmouth. Recorded in two locations in Carlton House: the Rose Satin Drawing Room in 1817 and the Ante Room in 1818 (Pyne, Royal Residences, III, pls facing... pp.31 & 43). Sent from the Old Throne Room to Morel and Seddon 10 January 1828 for removal to His Majesty's Writing Room following the furnishing of Wyatville’s newly built apartments for the King at Windsor Castle.
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Creator(s)
(cabinet maker)(restorer)(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Brass-inlaid tortoiseshell, gilt bronze and ebony
Measurements
34.5 x 56.5 x 41.0 cm (whole object)
Other number(s)