Writing table c.1815-25
Rosewood, oak, brass, mock leather, gilt bronze | 83.0 x 243.5 x 137.5 cm (whole object) | RCIN 35250
-
A large rectangular writing-table, rosewood veneered onto an oak carcase with gilt bronze mounts. The top inset with a modern, dark green leather cover bordered with foliate brass scrolls and edged with a gadrooned rim. The shaped apron with central shell-shaped cartouche, and boulle-style brass-inlaid scrollwork, on cabriole legs with masks at the top, on lion's paw feet.
The table was made by the Mount Street firm of cabinet-makers and upholsterers, Bailey & Sanders in 1824. It was made for the newly refurbished rooms at St James's and was depicted in a watercolour of 1840 in the Royal Closet (RCIN 917241). The watercolour shows Queen Victoria seated beside the table surrounded by Archbishops and Bishops who have presented a birthday address to the Queen. The watercolour is dated 25 May 1840, Queen Victoria's birthday. The table, with accompanying inkstand, are recorded in the Lord Chamberlain's Office accounts for 1824. The table is described in the account as: 'To a very large and elegant Buhl Writing Table richly decorated with highly chased Brass Work, the top covered with rich Crimson Genoa Velvet and bordered with Gold Lace £378'. The next entry in the account lists 'a very Large Buhl Inkstand handomely mounted to correspond with large rich Cut Glasses &c £35' (TNA LC 10/16, fol. 43).Provenance
Supplied for the Royal Closet (now Council Chamber) at St James's Palace, 1824. In Buckingham Palace by 1934.
-
Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
-
Medium and techniques
Rosewood, oak, brass, mock leather, gilt bronze
Measurements
83.0 x 243.5 x 137.5 cm (whole object)
Place of Production
England