Fine William IV Rosewood Library Table with Drawers, Circa 1830

A fine quality William IV rosewood library table, dating to circa 1830, of generous proportions and displaying exceptionally attractive figuring and colour. The substantial rectangular top is formed from beautifully figured rosewood, with softly rounded corners and a gently moulded edge. The timber has a particularly rich, warm colour, with the natural grain and figuring running prominently across the broad surface of the top. The frieze is fitted to the front with two useful drawers, each with an attractive figured rosewood front, turned knob handles and key escutcheon. The drawers are traditionally constructed with hand-cut dovetail joints. Beneath the frieze is a restrained moulded and turned decorative edge, while shaped brackets beneath either end of the top provide an elegant transition to the base. The table is supported on a handsome trestle-form base, comprising substantial rectangular uprights united by a long, finely turned stretcher with decorative ring and baluster turning to its centre. Each upright is raised on a broad platform base, enriched with carved scrolling brackets, and terminating in turned feet. The reverse is also neatly finished, allowing the table to stand comfortably away from a wall and making it particularly suitable as a library, writing or centre table. A very attractive example of William IV cabinetmaking, combining the strong architectural proportions characteristic of the period with the richness of well-figured rosewood. The table has a lovely mellow colour and surface and remains both highly decorative and extremely practical for modern use. English, circa 1830.