A Fine Late George IV Period Amboyna Centre Table, c.1830

A Fine Late George IV Period Amboyna Centre Table, c.1830 This lovely table is of circular form, the top supported on an outspreading column base supported on a tripartite platform with three gilt brass winged scroll form feet of large size and scale. The table veneered in the main with outstanding quality burr amboyna timber, used on the table top, the column and on the platform. The column is enhanced with inset ebonised stringing, creating a sophisticated effect, and both the base of the column and the edge of the table top enhanced with applied carved detail in contrasting timber, probably rosewood. The carving on the top is a deeply-carved egg and dart design and that surrounding the base of the column consists of stylised floral designs. When King George IV began his refurbishment of Windsor Castle in the 1820s the primary timber for much of the most expensive of his furniture was amboyna and this solidified the popularity of the exotic veneer. The King’s furniture was largely supplied by the firm of Morel and Seddon and they could certainly have produced the present piece, given its exceptional quality. Other firms who might also have produced it would include Tatham, Bailey and Saunders, also of London, and Gillows of London and Lancaster who produced various pieces utilising amboyna for some of their most important clients. Gillows’ Edinburgh rival William Trotter ought to also be considered. If establishing a maker of the piece beyond doubt is very difficult, ascertaining the quality of the piece and its high degree of decorative appeal certainly is not. This piece can only have been produced by one of the leading workshops of the time and would only have been within the reach of the wealthiest of clients. Its large scale also guarantees that this piece was originally made for a highly important house.