Mallett Autumn 2008
9/23/08
12:48 PM
Page 81
LONDON
A GEORGE II IRISH MAHOGANY SILVER TABLE An important George II Irish mahogany silver table, the dished top above an elaborately shaped frieze carved with ‘C’ scrolls and vines with a punched background, the cabriole legs are headed by acanthus leaves terminating in squared paw feet, the sides with similar carving. Ireland, circa 1750 Height: 28in (71cm) Width: 32in (81.5cm) Depth: 21in (53.5cm) PROVENANCE
The Guinness Family, Saint Annes House, Clontarf.
A+
MALLETT
Irish furniture of the 18th century is characterised by an ebullient spirit that contrasts with the restraint of English pieces from the same period. Irish carvers gave way to an abundance of Celtic spirit in their craftsmanship, which was demonstrated by a bold and muscular style. The carved friezes and legs of furniture were embellished with expressive acanthus scrolls, flat diaper carving, hairy paw feet and highly imaginative carved lions’ heads and grotesque masks. This animal influence strongly permeates Irish design culture and its manifestation in the furniture making tradition has created an expressive and unique style. The trait of animal elements in the tradition of Irish architectural and furniture design, which were
NEW YORK
used prolifically in Irish Romanesque carving, dates from the influence of The Book of Kells, a pristinely illustrated manuscript of the four gospels, providing a vibrant and rich source of animal imagery. It was written in the monastery of Iona in the 6th century to honour Saint Columba and has provided a lasting legacy in Irish culture. The mahogany used in Irish furniture is sumptuous and of the finest quality, with traders in Irish ports selecting the best of the timbers off shipments from the Americas. The quality of both material and craftsmanship in Irish furniture have combined with the rarity of such pieces to create a flourishing renaissance in the demand for Irish furniture. F2I0219
81