A George II Giltwood Console Table, Circa 1755

of large scale; the later verde antico marble top with moulded border on a slightly serpentine frame richly carved with acanthus, C-scrolls, shellwork and floral sprays; the frame probably partially re-constructed with additional later back rail and diagonal cross struts; some losses and replacements to carving; regilt

height 34 in.; width 75 in.; depth 33 in.

86.5 cm; 188 cm; 84 cm

A table of identical dimensions and almost identical design, which appears to be a pair to the present lot, was with Hotspur, London in 1973 and sold Christie's London, 25 November 2004, lot 68 and again in the same rooms 23 April 2009, lot 92. The only notable difference apart from another type of marble used for the top is a variation in the composition of the central frieze cartouche which is simpler in design, and it is possible this table is missing elements, or conversely additional elements were added to the cartouche of the present table. A further table of very similar design and almost identical dimensions was previously with Ronald Phillips Ltd., London.

The overall composition is in the manner of the London carver, joiner and draughtsman Matthias Lock (c.1710-1765) and relates to a drawing of a console published in plate V of his Six Tables in 1746. Lock's other publications of engravings including Six Sconces (1744) and A New Book of Ornaments with Twelve Leaves Consisting of Chimneys, Sconces, Tables, Spandle Panels, Spring Clock Cases, Stands, a Chandelier and Girandole, etc (1752) contributed largely to the dissemination of the rococo idiom in mid-18th century British and Irish furntiure design.