Rare Regency Mahogany Plate-warmer Pedestal Attributed to Gillows

A rare Regency mahogany plate-warmer pedestal, attributed to Gillows of Lancaster, decorated with ebony stringing and turned columns, and standing on a plinth base. The pedestal is constructed with a single door opening to reveal a metal-lined interior fitted with two metal plate racks, with the inside of the door also metal lined. This arrangement was designed to retain heat and keep plates and serving dishes warm before and during service. A closely related example is illustrated in Gillows of Lancaster and London, 1730–1840 by Susan E. Stuart. The published pedestal is attributed to Gillows and is described as being lined with tin to hold plate racks, with a heater in the lower drawer to keep food and plates warm. The close similarity in construction and function, together with the high quality of the mahogany, cabinetmaking and detailing of the present pedestal, provides strong support for an attribution to Gillows of Lancaster. Pieces of this type would have formed part of the furnishing of a substantial Regency dining room, positioned close to the dining table or sideboard so that plates and serving dishes could be kept warm during service. The door retains its original brass handle, while the mahogany exterior, ebony stringing and turned column details reflect the refined but practical character of Regency dining-room furniture. Today, the pedestal remains useful as a drinks cabinet, wine storage cupboard or occasional cabinet, while the top provides a practical display surface for a lamp, sculpture or other decorative object. Published Reference: A closely related pedestal is illustrated in Gillows of Lancaster and London, 1730–1840 by Susan E. Stuart, where it is described as one of a pair of vases and pedestals attributed to Gillows, with a tin-lined interior, plate racks and a heater in the lower drawer.