Regency Period Rosewood & Brass Inlaid Ladies Compendium Table

No: 11269 A delightful and rare Regency period rosewood and brass inlaid ladies compendium table, with rounded hinged ends, one fitted for inks and quills surmounted by pierced galleries with brass inlaid decoration, the centre with an easel support and removable book rest, frieze drawer and work box beneath, with end supports united by a turned stretcher and sabred legs terminating in detailed brass feet and castors, the adjustable reading slope with ratchet support. Attributed to J McLean and Son, Mary-le-bone street, London. McLean is well recorded and illustrated in Christopher Gilbert's "Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture 1700 - 1840" and is described as eminent. This is typical of his work and a comparable work table is illustrated in Thomas Sheraton's "Cabinet Dictionary" of 1803 where it is said "The design was taken from one executed by Mr. McLean ... who finishes these small articles in the neatest manner." (fig 594).