Alexander George Fine Antiques | Exceptional English Furniture

17th Century William and Mary Eight Day Burr Walnut Longcase Clock, John Martin (page 48)

Alexander George Fine Antiques E XC E PT I O N A L E N G L I S H F U R N I T U R E

GALLERY VISITS BY APPOINTMENT

www.alexandergeorgeantiques.com mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com Telephone: +44 (0)1367 243304 Mobile: +44 (0)7787 536199 85 London Street, Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8AA

Cover Image A Pair of Coxed and Woster Mulberry Cabinets on Secretaire Chests (page 44)

Caption Here

With the second national lockdown now lifted, and Christmas racing towards us, I am very proud to launch our Winter 2020/21 catalogue.

It showcases some of our current collection of fine antique furniture, clocks, art and objects of curiosity. Each piece has been selected for its beauty, authenticity, exquisite details and, in many cases, function.

Although no substitute for the warm conviviality of fairs or gallery visits, we hope that you enjoy browsing the catalogue as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

If anything piques your interest, please do get in touch to discuss further. We are passionate about helping you find the right piece for you and your collection.

I look forward to hearing from you on +44 (0) 1367243304 or mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com.

With best wishes

Mark Pargeter Director, Alexander George Fine Antiques Ltd

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

A George III Giltwood Mirror In The Manner Of Thomas Johnson An early George III carved giltwood mirror in the manner of Thomas Johnson, circa 1760.

The period mercury mirror plate within a moulded fluted frame is flanked by cascading native flora. The carved upper C-scroll corners are pierced and surmounted by a further scroll which seamlessly flows into the pediment of C-scrolls and flora centred by a rose.

Similarly, the lower of the mirror is edged with large scrolls of dripping acanthus leaves and C-scrolls all flowing to central cartouche.

It should be noted that this example is in the most wonderful condition and dates from one of the most celebrated periods in English furniture history ‘The Chippendale Period’.

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ATTRIBUTION

in the manner of Thomas Johnson

PROVENANCE

Private Scottish Collection

DIMENSIONS

Height: 43.31 in. (110 cm) Width: 22.05 in. (56 cm) Depth: 2.76 in. (7 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

5

Alexander George Fine Antiques

George II figured walnut card table on cabriole legs in the manner of Benjamin Crook A George II figured walnut table, concealing a games surface baize interior, with four walnut counter wells and figured candle/drinks roundels to each corner. Lovely to have a shaped drawer to the front of the piece which is also a key feature when attributing such a piece to Benjamin Crook. C.1740. This table is highly functional, rare and aesthetically pleasing piece.

Features four counter wells, figured candle/drinks roundels, a fine baize lined games surface and shaped frieze drawer. The elegant cabriole legs, with carved shells to the knees, terminate on ball and claw feet, sitting on casters.

Unusually the back of the games table is also veneered - a sign of exceptional quality. This wonderful piece has fabulous colour and patination.

6

ATTRIBUTION

In the manner of Benjamin Crook

PROVENANCE

Private collection, Beaconsfield, England

LITERATURE

Pictorial Diction of Marked London Furniture Makers, Page 169 - Fig:265. Benjamin Crook operated on the south side of Saint Pauls Church Yard from 1732 until may 1748 when he took the decision to retire.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 34 in. (86.30 cm) Width: 29 in. (73.66 cm) D epth: 17 in. (43.18 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

7

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Rare Silver Pocket Sundial and Compass by Michael Butterfield, Paris, circa 1700 A beautiful, rare solid silver Anglo-French octagonal pocket sundial with compass by Michael Butterfield, circa 1700.

The sundial is made for a latitude of 44° and could be used in places in the south of France such as Avignon and elsewhere along this parallel. The elaborately engraved base plate has a Roman chapter ring on which the gnomon (a triangular flap) casts its shadow. It is signed by the maker in the following manner: Butterfield A Paris.

On one side is a glazed recessed compass with a blued steel hand to position the instrument in such a way that the time can be read. The hinged triangular gnomon is richly engraved and in the shape of a bird’s head. The folding gnomon and cut corners enable the dial to be carried in the pocket.

The underside shows the latitudes of various Southern-French places in the relevant areas.

8

BY

Michael Butterfield, Paris

LITERATURE

Tardy, Dictionnaire des horlogers français, Paris, 1971, p. 103 C. Cowham, A Dial in Your Poke, Cambridge, 2004, passim H.Higton, Sundials, An Illustrated History of Portable Dials, London, 2001, passim

DIMENSIONS

Height: 2.56 in. (6.5 cm) Width: 2.29 in. (5.8 cm) Depth: 0.4 in. (1 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

9

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Oil Painting Of A Horse Standing Proud In Woodland Fine Art – Charles Henry Schwanfelder (1774-1837). Signed C H Schwanfelder Pinx and dated 1825. Exceptional portrait of a horse standing proud in woodland, in front of a tree lined vista incorporating cows residing by a stream.

Charles born in England, the son of a German decorative painter started his career helping his father painting clock faces and snuff boxes and became renowned in his own right for his animal paintings, later being appointed by George III and George IV. Exhibiting at the Royal Academy between 1809 and 1814. His works can be found at – Temple Newsam House, Lotherton Hall, York Museum trust, National Trust, Florence Court, Leeds City Museum and Galleries, The Ferens Art Gallery and Newstead Abbey.

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BY

Charles Henry Schwanfelder (1774-1837)

LITERATURE

Exhibited at the Royal Academy between 1809 and 1814. His works can be found at – Temple Newsam House, Lotherton Hall, York Museum trust, National Trust, Florence Court, Leeds City Museum and Galleries, The Ferens Art Gallery and Newstead Abbey.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 27.17 in. (69 cm) Width: 29.53 in. (75 cm) Depth: 2.56 in. (6.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

11

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Early 18th Century George I Highly Figured Walnut Double Dome Bookcase on Chest An exceptional and original highly figured George I walnut double dome bookcase on chest, circa 1720-1730. To the bookcase, original surmounted walnut finials on moulded chimneys sit above well-shaped moulded double dome arches to the front and sides.

The shaped break-arch doors with original hand-bevelled mercury mirror plates sit inside moulded and feather banded frames above candle slides, opening on shaped gilt-brass chased strap hinges to reveal the four-pin lock, shaped gilt brass clasps and four double-D moulded and grained shelves. Raised on two short over three long oak-lined graduating drawers, each double book-matched and framed to each side with fine feather-banding and cross banding.

This technique appears to have originated in the workshops running down the Southside of St Pauls Churchyard in the first quarter of the 18th century, which housed some of the most renowned cabinet makers of the time.

DIMENSIONS

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CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 85.44 in. (217 cm) Width: 41.34 in. (105 cm) Depth: 22.05 in. (56 cm)

13

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A George III 18th Century Mahogany Armchair In The Manner of Thomas Chippendale This wonderful and original armchair from the middle of the 18th century epitomises the rococo style demonstrating the cross over from flamboyance to restrained beauty in a more naturalistic and detailed form. Circa 1750 England.

Raised on four solid mahogany legs, out-swept to the back and moulded to the front each is joined by boundary stretchers. The carved and shaped arms meet the large stuff over seat and terminate in fluid foliage. The splat is a marvel of design, a homage to Thomas Chippendale. Leading up from the shoe an illusion carving terminates in a trefoil, whilst french curves rise upwards into gothic arches and scrolls of acanthus seamlessly meet with the similarly carved crest rail, centred by icicles.

It should be noted that the age oxidised surfaces to this chair are wonderful and to find any piece from the period in original country house condition such as this is seldom seen.

The chair is currently covered in a burgundy leather that was probably fitted towards the end of the 19th century.

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ATTRIBUTION/BY

In the manner of Thomas Chippendale

DIMENSIONS

Height: 39.38 in. (100 cm) Width: 24.41 in. (62 cm) Depth: 20.48 in. (52 cm) Seat Height: 18.51 in. (47 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

George III Chippendale Period Mahogany Partners Desk George III Chippendale period mahogany partners desk concealing twenty-four small drawers.

The original sectioned and tooled leather top sits above two short and three long quill/ pen drawers to each side, neatly concealed in the freeze above an intricate blind-fretwork of Chippendale design. The pedestals are raised on moulded plinths of architectural form with carrying handles to the sides.

Faced with oak lined graduating and cock-beaded drawers and similarly to the revers.

However, to the reverse are superbly executed ‘dummy’ drawers, opening to reveal twentyfour small drawers, beautifully inset with letters of the alphabet and brass knobs.

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ATTRIBUTION

in the manner of Thomas Chippendale

LITERATURE

Relating to a design for a Library Tablein the ‘Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker’s Director’, Thomas Chippendale 1754.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 30.32 in. (77 cm) Width: 55.91 in. (142 cm) Depth: 38.19 in. (97 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

George III Ebony Veneered Bracket Clock with Pull Quarter Repeat on Six Bells, Thomas Hughes, London The ebony-veneered case has a so-called inverted bell top, a design which became popular in the early Georgian period (from 1715 onwards). The case is adorned with brass mouldings and rests on shaped brass block feet. It is surmounted by a brass carrying handle. There are silk-backed pierced ebony sound frets to the front and back doors, whilst the sides are glazed.

The arched brass dial has a Roman silvered chapter ring, with two subsidiary rings in the arch, on the left-hand side a strike/ silent ring to switch off the striking, and on the right rise-and-fall regulation. In the corners there are pierced cast brass spandrels, whilst the matted centre has false pendulum and date apertures. The time is indicated by a pair of period pierced blued-steel hands on the black Roman chapter ring with Arabic five-minute and minute divisions.

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BY

Thomas Hughes, London

PROVENANCE

Private collection, Oxfordshire

LITERATURE

Maker, Thomas Hughes was a member of the Worshipful Clockmakers Company from 1712-1753, until the year of his death. His son of the same name (apprenticed 1734) was also a clockmaker, but it is highly likely that this clock was made by the father.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 21.26 in. (54 cm) Width: 11.42 in. (29 cm) Depth: 7.29 in. (18.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

Exceptional Charles II Blonde Olive Oyster Lace-Box of Large Scale An exceptional blonde olive oyster ‘lace-box’ of large scale from the reign of Charles II, circa 1675-1685.

This box is a showcase of the cabinetmaker’s skill, with well-chosen oysters of olive from different size branches cut horizontally and placed in a book-matched pattern to create wonderful geometric shapes centred by an inlaid Tudor rose, roundels and further decorated with fleur-de-lis to the four corners all in holly.

Similarly, the cross-grain moulded and holly banded frieze is decorated in oysters of olive and inlaid with opposing fleur-de-lis. To the centre of the freeze is the most wonderful pierced 17th century escutcheon with a putty mask.

The curiously named ‘lace box’ or ‘bible box’ veneered in oyster cut hardwoods such as olive and Kingwood were popular amongst the middle and higher classes of society from circa 1660-1700.

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LITERATURE

H. Cescinsky, English Furniture of the Eighteenth Century, London 1909, vol. I, p. 97, fig. 121.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 6.11 in. (15.5 cm), Width: 23.23 in. (59 cm), Depth: 17.92 in. (45.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

English 18th Century Chippendale George III Gilt Brass Rococo Hall Lantern A superb and original late 18th century George III rococo large gilt brass hall lantern from the most celebrated period in English furniture design: the Chippendale period.

The original shaped four-light candelabra hangs within a cylindrical lantern cast with scrolling acanthus, with five original serpentine glazed panels and a door to one face.

It should be noted that this is a rare, exceptional and original survivor from one of the most celebrated periods in English furniture design.

Lanterns of this elaborate form are just as stylish and fashionable today as they were when first produced some 300 years ago.

DIMENSIONS

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CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 31.89 in. (81 cm) Diameter: 17.72 in. (45 cm)

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

Superb George III 18th Century Mahogany Hall Bench / Window Seat Armchair A fine and rare late 18th century George III mahogany hall bench/window seat in the manner of Gillows.

The back, beautifully decorated with two hand-painted triple-moulded roundels depicting floral paterae, each joined by four fine and triple-moulded petal-shaped supports. Leading down from sweeping moulded arms onto baluster section. The shaped cross banded bench seat is raised on turned legs to the front and fitted with six solid mahogany moulded rails.

Benches of this form from the 18th century are extremely rare and this is a superb and original example.

It works very well as a hall bench, window seat, sash window seat, bay window seat etc.

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ATTRIBUTION

in the manner of Gillows

DIMENSIONS

Height: 35.04 in. (89 cm) Width: 41.34 in. (105 cm) Depth: 17.72 in. (45 cm) Seat Height: 16.54 in. (42 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

25

Alexander George Fine Antiques

17th Century William and Mary Period Kingwood Oyster Strongbox or Coffre Fort A fine large and rare kingwood oyster strongbox or Coffre Fort, circa 1680-1700, England.

Adorned with highly decorative gilt brass strap work and decorated entirely in knife cut oysters of kingwood, this box is fit for the most discerning of collector.

The large gilt brass shield-shaped clasp opens on a push-spring release to reveal a box interior lined in rosewood with two drawers, a compartment, securing bolts and 5 wellhidden boxes within.

Once the lid, which conceals two secret boxes behind its drop-down compartment, is opened you can reach inside to slide the original gilt brass bolt lock to open the fall. Once the fall is open you will find two long drawers divided by a secret compartment and a further two are hidden above.

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LITERATURE

A Franco-Flemish kingwood oyster veneered strong-box, late 17th Century, Collection of Burghley House, Ref: FUR0442b.

Strong box, Collection of V&A Museum, London, Ref: W.10-1951

DIMENSIONS

Height: 12.6 in. (32 cm) Width: 21.26 in. (54 cm) Depth: 12.21 in. (31 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

27

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine 18th Century English Celestial Pocket Globe

by Nathaniel Hill, London, 1754 A fine and rare 18th century English terrestrial and celestial pocket globe by Nathaniel Hill in its original black pebbled fish skin case dated 1754 titled “A new Terrestrial GLOBE by Nath Hill 1754”.

This beautiful example of an early pocket globe retains all of its original color and varnish to the engraved hand-colored paper gores. On the globe is marked a numbered and graduated equator with a graduated ecliptic line also drawn. The Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn are also shown. Pocket globes were extremely popular from the early 18th century to the mid-19th century; it demonstrated both the intellectual veracity and great wealth of its holder.

The countries and territories shown demonstrate the rapidly evolving European knowledge of the world thanks to famous voyages of discovery. Countries such as Australia (shown as ‘New Holland’) and North America are only partially mapped. The Tradewinds, as well as monsoons, are also shown.

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BY

Nathaniel Hill, London

PROVENANCE

Private UK collection

LITERATURE

Dekker, E. Globes at Greenwich: A Catalogue of the Globes and Armillary Spheres in the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich. London: Oxford University Press and the National Maritime Museum, 1999. pp. 355, 441-442.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 3 in. (7.62 cm) Diameter: 3 in. (7.62 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

Queen Anne Walnut Corner Cupboard With Bevelled Mirror Plate A truly remarkable find in original condition.

To the door a shaped soft beveled mirror plate is framed by a cross-grain molding of typical queen Anne design which is further cross banded, feather-banded and edged to the opening with a single dee-molding. The hinges and escutcheon are original and clearly express an Asian influence much like that seen on Chinese lacquered furniture of the period. The carcass is constructed of solid oak and unusually has a dovetailed construction, rather than the usual ‘nailed’. We particularly like the book matched walnut used on the cross grain cornice.

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PROVENANCE

Private London collection

DIMENSIONS

Height: 38 in. (96.52 cm) Width: 27 in. (68.58 cm) Depth: 15 in. (38.1 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

Figured Walnut George II 18th Century Kneehole Desk Attributed to Elizabeth Bell A Fine George II Figured Walnut Kneehole Desk Attributed to Elizabeth Bell & Sons, 17401758. The superb quarter veneered figured walnut top is bordered by a fine feather stringing, cross-banded and edged with cross-grain ovolo mouldings on re-entered corners.

Six oak lined drawers bearing their original locks and handles/escutcheons surround the central cupboard which opens on its original shaped H-hinges. The shaped frieze is bookmatched in well-chosen veneers and opens as a hidden drawer.

The desk closely relates to a labelled example by Elizabeth Bell, illustrated in ‘Early Georgian Furniture 1715-1740’ by Adam Bowett, page 123, plate 3:56.

Elizabeth Bell succeeded her husband Henry in 1740 and her son Phillip succeeded her in or before 1758. They worked in the foremost region for fine furniture production in the late 17th and early 18th century, St Pauls Churchyard, London.

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ATTRIBUTION

Elizabeth Bell & Sons

LITERATURE

Early Georgian Furniture 1715-1740’ by Adam Bowett, page 123, plate 3:56.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 32 in. (81.28 cm) Width: 31 in. (78.74 cm) Depth: 19 in. (48.26 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

33

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Important Documented George III 18th-Century Linen Press by Gillows of Lancaster and London This piece was made by Gillows of Lancaster in 1766 for Lord John France of Rawcliffe Hall, Lancashire Fylde. The original designs for this piece can be found in the most celebrated publication on the makers, Gillows of Lancaster and London 1730-1840 by Susan E. Stuart (2008) (pp. 2, 54-60; plates 597-604).

This piece is cited by Stuart in the aforementioned publication (p. 55) as being undoubtedly “one of the finest completed by the Lancaster firm during the 1760s” and is of great historical importance.

As well as the academic significance and exceptional form, the piece is of rich colour displaying a variety of shades to its original patinated surface.

34

BY

Gillows of Lancaster and London

PROVENANCE

Previously with Mallett & Sons (Antiques) Ltd, London

LITERATURE

Gillows of Lancaster and London 1730-1840 by Susan E. Stuart (2008) (pp. 2, 54-60; plates 597-604).

DIMENSIONS

Height: 90.56 in. (230 cm) Width: 54.34 in. (138 cm) Depth: 27.56 in. (70 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

35

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine Ebonized George II Eight Day Table Clock with Dutch Striking and Trip Repeat Andrew Prime, was apprenticed in 1725 and a member of the Clockmakers’ Company in 1736.

The movement is an extremely accomplished piece of engineering with five knopped pillars, double fusee, on original verge escapement with short knife-edge suspended pendulum. It has Dutch rack striking indicating the hours fully on a larger bell and the half hours also fully (the number of strokes being equal to the number of the following hour) on a smaller bell. In addition, it has trip repeat. The profusely engraved backplate and verge cock apron depict floral and scrolling leaf and vine patterns around a prominent signature cartouche: Andr Prime LONDON. The break-arch brass dial has a silvered chapter ring, a signature plaque to the arch, date aperture above the VI, and a false pendulum aperture under the XII. The chapter ring has Roman numerals within a minute ring and outer Arabic five-minute track.

36

BY

Andrew Prime, London

DIMENSIONS

Height: 20.87 in. (53 cm) Width: 11.82 in. (30 cm) Depth: 7.09 in. (18 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

37

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Large George III 18th Century Mahogany Wine Cooler Cellarette or Jardinière A fine and large mid-18th century George III oval mahogany cellarette or wine cooler on original stand in the manner of Thomas Chippendale.

Raised on four moulded outswept legs fitted with casters and carved ears of acanthus.

The oval body of barrel form is bound by large brass straps fitted with the original handles and tin lining.

Lovely original country house condition with exceptional depth of color and patination.

Similar models of this form were supplied by Thomas Chippendale to Temple Newsome House.

A great party piece to fill with wine and champagne or as a jardinière.

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ATTRIBUTION

In the manner of Thomas Chippendale

DIMENSIONS

Height: 22.84 in. (58 cm) Width: 27.17 in. (69 cm) Depth: 17.52 in. (44.5 cm

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

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Alexander George Fine Antiques

George II Burr/Burl Walnut Caddy Topped Chest, circa 1730-1740 An important George II burr walnut caddy topped chest, circa 1730-1740. With firm attribution to Giles Grendey.

The ‘caddy’ moulded quarter veneered and feather-banded burr walnut top sits above a cock-beaded brushing slide, over four long graduating drawers, each cross banded, feather-banded and book-matched in choice cuts of burr walnut veneer. The chest is raised on original bracket feet and leather-wrapped brass castors. Similarly, the sides are bookmatched in choice cuts of figured walnut.

It should be noted that chests such as this are extremely rare and rarer still to retain all brass furniture, locks, feet and not forgetting well patinated original surfaces.

Giles Grendey was born at Wooton-under-Edge in Gloucestershire in 1693. His workshop was at Aylesbury House, St. John’s Square, Clerkenwell, London and is most famously known to have supplied an order to the duke of Infantado for his castle of Lazcano in Spain.

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ATTRIBUTION

Firmly attributed to Giles Grendey

PROVENANCE

Private American collection

LITERATURE

A notably similar chest can be found bearing the trade label of Giles Grendey in Adam Bowetts ‘Early Georgian Furniture’, page 103.

DIMENSIONS

Width: 30 in. (76 cm) Height: 30 in. (76 cm) Depth: 19 ½ in. (49 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

41

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A Fine 18th Century Georgian Chippendale Giltwood Rococo Mirror, Circa 1760 In full rococo form the free flowing cartouche of acanthus leaves in the form of a love heart is off balance, giving the allusion of movement, a sort of life like quality.

This detail in itself shows off the high level of skill required which is again demonstrated in the climbing flora to the left and right of the frame which is adorned with C-scrolls also known as ‘French curve or courbe française’. The flora is most likely to be the flowers, leaves and fruit of the fig tree. Figs were imported from France, Spain and Italy to England in the 18th century and were planted on the south walls of stately houses whose aristocratic owners appeared to be the only ones to appreciate them… the lower classes having little regard for figs and often derided them, as in the common saying ‘not worth a fig’. Interestingly, ‘Brunswick’, ‘Brown Turkey’ and ‘White Marseilles’ are still the most commonly grown figs in Britain.

42

ATTRIBUTION

In the manner of Thomas Chippendale

PROVENANCE

Private collection Edinburgh.

EXHIBITED AT THE ANTIQUES DEALER’S FAIR June 1967, by Charles Lumb and Son’s Ltd

DIMENSIONS

Height: 49.2 in. (125 cm) Width: 24 in. (61 cm) Depth: 2.75 in. (7 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

43

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A Pair of Coxed and Woster Mulberry Cabinets on Secretaire Chests A unique and important pair of Coxed and Woster ‘mulberry’ cabinets on secretaire chests, both bearing their original trade labels, circa 1719.

This pair are the tenth and eleventh pieces to be discovered bearing the original trade labels from the partnership of Grace Coxed and Thomas Woster.

Coxed and Woster are known for their dramatic use of veneers. Burrs such as elm, walnut and of course the most highly prised ‘mulberry’ which is in fact burr maple. Mulberry, is a generic term coined in the 1950’s by the antique trade to describe burr maple (Acer Campestre) taken from the root ball. The highly figured veneer in its raw state is white in colour and with little contrast to the grain. It is not until the veneer is treated with nitric acid, (or as it was described in “Treatise of japanning” published in 1688, “aqua forties) turning it to a pleasing oxidised orange hue. The grain is then highlighted with the use of lamp black which gives a striking contrast, giving the effect of tortoiseshell in appearance.

44

BY

Signed/Inscribed G.Coxed & T.Woster At the White Swan in St. Pauls Church-yard, London; makes and sells cabinets, book-cases, chest of drawers, scrutores, and looking-glasses of all sorts at reasonable rates.

PROVENANCE

No.10: Private collection Bedfordshire, UK. No.11: Estate of the late Mr Wallace, Oregon USA.

LITERATURE

Adam Bowett and Laurie Lindey ‘Labelled Furniture from the White Swan Workshop in St Paul’s Churchyard’ Furniture History Society XXXIX (2003), pp. 71-99.

Furniture History Society ‘Dictionary Of English Furniture Makers 1660-1840’ Page 205

DIMENSIONS

Height: 76.25 in. (193.7 cm) Width: 42.5 in. (107.9 cm) Depth: 22.25 in. (56.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

45

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A Pair of Coxed and Woster Mulberry Cabinets on Secretaire Chests The cabinets were made in a time of great prosperity with 18th century entrepreneurs extending their range of their businesses around the globe. By the 1720’s, Britain was one of the most prosperous countries in the world, and English novelist Daniel Defoe boasted: “we are the most diligent nation in the world”. The vast trade, rich manufactures, mighty wealth and an insurgents of tens of thousands highly skilled Protestants fleeing oppression after 1685, led to the rise of what is now known as the ‘golden age’ of furniture. For example, the use of white metal stringing and kingwood cross banding that embellish these cabinets is almost certainly down to Gerrit Jensen, who introduced much of the continental habits in the late 17th century.

46

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

47

Alexander George Fine Antiques

17th Century William and Mary Eight Day Burr Walnut Longcase Clock, John Martin The attractive burr walnut-veneered oak case is of classic design for the period and has a warm patina. The formerly rising hood has a shallow caddy, lovely blind fretwork in the frieze, is flanked by plain brass-capped columns and has glazed movement viewing windows to the sides. It is surmounted by three giltwood ball finials. The case has a long trunk door framed by D-mouldings and a rectangular base resting on bun feet. There is an oval lenticle with moulded surround to the trunk door.

The weight-driven eight-day four-pillar movement has going and striking trains. The going train has anchor escapement with a royal pendulum whilst the striking train is regulated by an internal count wheel and sounds the hours on a bell. The 11-inch brass dial has a silvered chapter ring, seconds ring and date aperture in the matted centre and is embellished in the corners by elaborately pierced cherub-head spandrels. It is signed along the bottom John Martin Londini. The time is indicated by a fine pair of blued-steel hands, the hour hand richly pierced.

48

BY

John Martin (1659-1709)

DIMENSIONS

Height: 87 in. (220.98 cm) Width: 16.5 in. (41.91 cm) Depth: 9 in. (22.86 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

49

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Powerful and Bold 17th Century Baroque Giltwood Mirror This is an extremely accomplished mirror frame for the period, with deep well-formed carving throughout.

A simple concave moulding border surrounds the 17th century mercury mirror plate but the frame is anything but. The deeply carved giltwood outer frame is centred by a superbly executed mask or putti adorned with leaves and flora. The sides are equally impressively decorated with opposing eagles on ball and claw. To the base, a mask known as a ‘greenman’ flows without break into large scrolling leaves and grapes.

It should be noted that this piece is in the most wonderful condition with original gilding and what appears to be the original 17th century mercury mirror plate.

DIMENSIONS

50

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 22.5 in. (57.15 cm) Width: 19.5 in. (49.53 cm) Depth: 2 in. (5.08 cm)

51

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine 17th Century Barley or Solomonic Twist Baroque Walnut Stool with Tapestry Dating from the last quarter of the 17th century and with a period tapestry fragment cover, this walnut stool certainly has a presence.

Raised on the original solid walnut bun feet, the four finely carved barley or Solomonic twist legs are each joined by periphery stretchers of the same form.

The stool is covered in a beautiful 17th century tapestry fragment depicting a hunting horn, rope and foliage.

It should be noted that very few examples in walnut have survived from the Baroque period. This model is very sophisticated in its form and is in original condition.

DIMENSIONS

52

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 16.15 in. (41 cm) Width: 17.72 in. (45 cm) Depth: 15.36 in. (39 cm) Seat Height: 16.15 in. (41 cm)

53

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine and Rare Late 17th Century William and Mary Olive Oyster Lace Box A fine and rare late 17th century olive oyster ‘lace box from the reign of King William and Queen Mary (1688-1707).

The cross-grain figured olive moulded top is decorated in well chosen hand cut olive oysters lined with a fine stringing of holly or box in a geometric fashion, consisting of roundels and quarter roundels to each corner and further banded in holly. Similarly, the face of the frieze is veneered in oysters of olive and figured to the sides.

It should be noted that the box is of the most wonderful rich colour and has a very well thought out design .

The curiously named ‘lace box’ or ‘bible box’ veneered in oyster cut hardwoods such as olive and Kingwood were popular amongst the middle and higher classes of society from circa 1660-1700.

54

LITERATURE

H. Cescinsky, English Furniture of the Eighteenth Century, London 1909, vol. I, p. 97, fig. 121.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 4.93 in. (12.5 cm) Width: 17.72 in. (45 cm) Depth: 13 in. (33 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

55

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine 18th Century Queen Anne Burr and Highly Figured Walnut Card Table A fine and rare Queen Anne burr and highly figured walnut card table, circa 1710 England.

The feather and cross banded book-matched top opens on original hinges to reveal a baize lined interior with figured walnut candle stands and counter wells, each finely lined in feather banding. The shaped frieze conceals a beautifully constructed oak lined drawer to the centre and stands on carved cabriole legs with lappet knees and pad feet. Lovely color and patination throughout.

DIMENSIONS

56

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 28.35 in. (72 cm) Width: 32.29 in. (82 cm) Depth: 15.75 in. (40 cm)

57

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Rare 18th Century George II Mahogany Armchair with Carved Shepherds Crook Arms A fine example of a bold early George II mahogany dressing chair with carved shepherds crook arms, circa 1725-1740.

Raised on two eared spadefoot cabriole legs to the front and two turned to the back, the large bell-shaped seat is crossbanded to both the face and edge and is fitted with a large drop-in seat.

The shaped shepherds crook or carved ‘scrowl elbows’ join from the seat and seamlessly into the shaped upright supports and crest rail.

‘Scrowl elbows’ is a reference to a receipt dating back to 1723 when Thomas Green supplied a dressing chair described as ‘a large walnut tree dressing chair with carved feet and carved scrowl elbows’.

This is an extremely accomplished example, of a great design, that is solid and very comfortable.

DIMENSIONS

58

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 38.39 in. (97.5 cm) Width: 24.41 in. (62 cm) Depth: 19.89 in. (50.5 cm) Seat Height: 17.72 in. (45 cm)

59

Alexander George Fine Antiques

George Iii Mahogany Linen Press Wardrobe A fine George III mahogany linen press in outstanding original condition. The press was obviously made to exceed with the cabinetmaker using only the very finest materials in an extravagant manner. An example of this extravagance can be seen on every angle off the piece, you open a drawer and you are greeted with solid mahogany linings, the cupboard doors display the finest cuts of mahogany, veneered onto mahogany, even the backboards are of solid mahogany in a panelled construction.

Traditionally, a ‘linen press’ (or just press) is a cabinet, usually of woods such as oak, walnut or mahogany and designed for storing sheets, clothing, and other textiles. Linenpresses were made chiefly in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries and are now considered decorative examples of antique furniture. Examples made during the 18th century often featured expensive veneers and intricate inlays, and were designed to occupy prominent places in early bedrooms as storage for clothing. Examples from the 18th century are most highly prised due to superior cabinet-work, classic design and exquisite use of materials.

60

ATTRIBUTION

in the manner of Thomas Chippendale

DIMENSIONS

Height: 74.81 in. (190 cm) Width: 50.4 in. (128 cm) Depth: 24.02 in. (61 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

61

Alexander George Fine Antiques

19th Century Gilt-Brass Engraved Striking and Repeating Carriage Clock The superb engraved gilt brass gorge case has facetted glass panels to all sides so that the movement is almost entirely visible. The top has an oval window set in an engraved mask through which the original silvered platform escapement can be seen. At the back, there is a door giving access to the winding and setting arbors. The clock is surmounted by a typically shaped carrying handle.

The circular enamel dial is set in a fine elaborately engraved gilt-brass mask and has a Roman chapter ring with an outer minute track with five-minute markers. The time is indicated by a fine pair of blued-steel Breguet hands. The retailer has marked the dial in the following manner: G. WADHAM BATH. The spring-driven eight-day movement of this charming clock is constructed between plates. It consists of going and striking trains. The going train has an English lever escapement on a silvered platform with hairspring balance and regulation.

62

BY

George Wadham, Bath (active 1846 - 1878)

LITERATURE

Loomes, Brian. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World: Complete 21st Century Edition (2005), p. 804

DIMENSIONS

Height: 5.71 in. (14.5 cm) Width: 2.96 in. (7.5 cm) Depth: 2.56 in. (6.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

63

Alexander George Fine Antiques

18th Century William and Mary Figured Walnut Cushion Mirror, circa 1690, England A golden figured walnut cushion mirror from the reign of William and Mary, circa 1690, England.

The pulvinated figured walnut frame is of what is known as ‘cushion form’ and dates from a very small period of English furniture design between, circa 1675-1700. The mercury mirror plate is edged and bordered with an ovolo cross-grain moulding.

Lovely original and well-patinated condition.

DIMENSIONS

64

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 21.26 in. (54 cm) Width: 19.69 in. (50 cm) Depth: 3.15 in. (8 cm)

65

Alexander George Fine Antiques

18th Century Period Mahogany Longcase Clock

by Thomas Fowle A fine George III period mahogany longcase clock of excellent colour, patination and proportions, circa 1780-1790 Surmounted with three ball and spike brass finials, the inverted bell top hood is decorated with a Greek key frieze below an ovolo moulding, supported by applied Doric hood columns, with brass capitals. The long trunk door is of break arch design and finely moulded, retaining original brass hinges and lock, sitting on its original base and bold moulded plinth.

The arched, one-piece silvered dial, superbly engraved with birds and foliate ornament, features subsidiary of five-pillar construction, with anchor escapement and brass encased weights. The pendulum with flat brass rod and unusually large bob.

The dial engraved: Thomas Fowle, East Grinstead.

66

BY

Thomas Fowle

LITERATURE

Thomas Fowle is recorded in the British Directory of 1791 for East Grinstead, East Sussex. Apparently, he came from a long-established family of clockmakers. A longcase clock by Thomas Fowle, East Grinstead, circa 1710, is recorded in Herbert Cesinsky’s English Domestic Clocks (fig. 74, page 105)

DIMENSIONS

Height: 96.07 in. (244 cm) Width: 17.33 in. (44 cm) Depth: 9.06 in. (23 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

67

Alexander George Fine Antiques

17th Century Figured Walnut and Seaweed Marquetry Lace Box A fine and extremely rare figured walnut and seaweed marquetry ‘lace box’, circa…. let’s break it down – Seaweed marquetry first appeared in English cabinetwork in the late 17th century (Baroque period) though interestingly originated in Italy. Cross-grain mouldings were popular in England from circa 1675-1740, so through the reigns of Charles II, James II, William and Mary, Queen Anne, George I and George II. The long-grain banding around the top and frieze helps to reduce that date down to the last half of the 17th century at least and was used as early as 1660. Taking all into account we can confidently say that this box dates from the last quarter of the 17th century, circa 1675-1690.

The curiously named ‘lace box’ or ‘bible box’ veneered in oyster cut hardwoods such as olive, Kingwood, walnut and marquetry were popular amongst the middle and higher classes of society from circa 1660-1700.

DIMENSIONS

68

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 5.12 in. (13 cm) Width: 17.33 in. (44 cm) Depth: 13.78 in. (35 cm)

69

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Rare 19th Century Bronze Horizontal Sundial

by Watkins & Hill London A beautifully weathered circular bronze sundial by Watkins & Hill, first half of the 19th century. The sundial was designed and calibrated to be used outside on a stone base in a garden in Southern England.

The engraved base plate, which has a lovely green-hued patina, has a Roman chapter ring with half-hour markers and minute divisions, on which the gnomon casts its shadow.

The sundial is signed by the makers at the bottom in the following manner: Watkins & Hill Charing Cross. In the middle is a compass rose to position the instrument in such a way that the time can be read. Above the middle is a Latin inscription: Cogitaui Dies Antionas (‘I thought upon the days of old’ (Psalm 76)).

70

BY

Watkins & Hill London

DIMENSIONS

Height: 5.52 in. (14 cm) Diameter: 10.01 in. (25.4 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

71

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Early 19th Century Grand Tour Framed Pulvinated Micro Mosaic of the Colosseum A fine and rare early 19th century framed grand tour pulvinated micro mosaic of the iconic Colosseum of Rome, Italy, in a period frame.

This is a most unusual micro mosaic as it is pulvinated, giving a three-dimensional view of the architectural colosseum.

It is likely that the tablet was framed in England once brought back from Italy in the early 19th century. No expense was spared with the frame having gilt inner moulding and veneered in tropical hardwood.

Undoubtedly, one of the most famous amphitheatres, the largest ever built was, and continues to be, a draw for tourists. During a gentleman’s Grand Tour, it was customary to bring back fine mementoes for either one’s own collection or as a gift demonstrating the breadths of one’s travels. This beautiful micro mosaic would undoubtedly have achieved its purpose and continues to provide enjoyment today.

DIMENSIONS

72

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 6 in. (15.24 cm) Width: 7 in. (17.78 cm) Depth: 1 in. (2.54 cm)

73

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Important 18th Century Mahogany Irish Silver or Tea Table, circa 1740-1760 An important early 18th century Irish silver or tea table, circa 1740-1750.

The solid mahogany top is relife carved to form a moulding with re-entrant corners. Similarly, the frieze is moulded to all faces allowing the table to stand freely. The same moulding follows seamlessly down the double scrolling legs to the arched and panelled feet.

The table is most likely by the same maker as a pair from Killuddery, Co. Wicklow, now in a private collection. They were probably supplied to Chaworth Brabazon, sixth Earl of Meath (1686-1763) around the time of his marriage in 1731.

74

PROVENANCE

Ronald Phillips Ltd., 2005. This table has the same double-scroll legs as the pair of marble-topped tables from Kirlruddery (fig.130) and a walnut sofa table (cat 47)

LITERATURE

A notably similar table is illustrated in IRISH FURNITURE by ‘The Night of Glin and James Peill, page 238, plate 142 – A mahogany tea-table, circa 1740-1760

DIMENSIONS

Height: 69 in. (175.26 cm) W 74 in. (187.96 cm) Depth: 51 in. (129.54 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

75

Alexander George Fine Antiques

19th Century Repeating Gilt-Brass Carriage Clock by the Famous Drocourt A superb repeating carriage clock with a gilt-brass gorge case by the famous maker Drocourt, circa 1870.

A lovely eight-day striking and repeating carriage clock signed and numbered by the retailer on the enamel dial, GROHÉ PENNINGTON & TYPKE SUCCESSORS 4022 WIGMORE STREET LONDON, circa 1870.

The superb gilt-brass gorge case has facetted glass panels to all sides so that the movement is almost entirely visible. The top has an oval window through which the original gilt brass platform escapement can be seen. At the back, there is a glazed door giving access to the winding and setting arbors. The clock is surmounted by a typically shaped carrying handle.

The striking indicates the hour fully and the half hours with a single stroke on a gong.

In addition, it has a repeat button at the top, with which the last hour struck can be repeated at will.

76

BY

Drocourt, circa 1870.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 5.04 in. (12.8 cm) Width: 3.31 in. (8.4 cm) Depth: 2.96 in. (7.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

77

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A Fine Irish Mid 18th-Century Carved Mahogany Console Card Table An exceptionally well proportioned (29”) Chippendale period mid 18th century Irish carved mahogany console card table.

Card tables from the period of this small size (29”) and form, tend to be more desirable as the proportions are more pleasing to the eye, it actually stands around 6-7 inches narrower than the standard size of 35 – 36 inches. Further more, when you wish to transform form the console to card table you simply swing open the back knuckle-jointed leg which opens to reveal a hidden drawer, presumably for cards and counters.

The carved cabriole legs on ball and claw feet are adorned to the knees with fine acanthus leaves scrolling into the ears and cross veneered stepped frieze. The figured and well patinated top opens to a baize lined interior with four candle rests.

DIMENSIONS

78

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 29.5 in. (75 cm) Width: 29 in. (74 cm) Depth: 14.5 in. (37 cm)

79

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A unique early ninetieth-century travelling clock A unique early ninetieth century travelling clock signed on both the silvered dial and the backplate French Royal Exchange LONDON. The small ebonised rectangular case has a circular silvered dial to the front, protected by a convex glass set in an engine-turned gilt brass bezel. There are red silk-back arched gilt brass sound frets to the sides, while the backdoor has an elaborately pierced similarly backed gilt brass panel. The case is surmounted by a countersunk gilt brass carrying handle and the clock rests on four gilt brass engine-turned feet.

The fine circular silvered brass dial has a Roman chapter-ring, surrounded by a minute track with five-minute divisions. There is an Arabic brass alarm disc in the middle, behind a fine pair of blued steel hands. At the top is a strike/silent lever S/N. The maker, French, was a clock and watchmaker at the Royal Exchange. Loomes gives the dates 1810-1911. The whole can be put in a fine brass-bound mahogany travelling case, the bottom having a semi-circular cut-out to facilitate removing the clock from the case. It is surmounted by a shaped brass carrying handle.

80

BY

French, Royal Exchange, London

PROVENANCE

Private collection Belgium

DIMENSIONS

Height: 8.6 in. (22 cm) Width: 7 in. (18 cm) Depth: 4 in. (10.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

81

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A FINE GEORGE II 18TH CENTURY CHIPPENDALE PERIOD CARVED MAHOGANY TORCHIERE An exquisitely fine and very rare George II mahogany torchiere. It is carved to a tripod base on cabriole legs with acanthus leaves terminating on ball-and-claw feet. The baluster and twist baluster reeded column is finely carved to the base in ‘egg and dart’ form. To the top sits its original gallery with four carved carrying handles.

It should be noted that the condition and patination of this piece is truly exceptional!

82

ATTRIBUTION

In the manner of Thomas Chippendale

PROVENANCE

Private Sussex Collection

DIMENSIONS

Height: 33 in. (83.82 cm) Diameter: 11.2 in. (28.45 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

83

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A fine burr walnut George I dressing mirror An extremely rare and fine George I burr walnut dressing mirror raised on ball and bracket feet.

The drawer linings of this piece redefine the meaning of fine linings. The burr walnut case is finely lined with feather-banding as are the one long over three short drawers. The shaped mirror is of typical Queen Anne/early George I design and bordered with an intricate cross grain moulding of walnut.

Dressing mirrors of this fine quality from the first quarter of the 18th century are extremely rare and rarer still on ball and bracket feet. The ball and bracket foot was only in production for a very short period of time and has been noted on only a handful of exceptional pieces all made in London by some of the great cabinet makers of the 18th century to include, Peter Miller and Coxed and Woster.

84

ATTRIBUTION

London made most likely from St Pauls Churchyard

PROVENANCE

Private Collection

LITERATURE

Adam Bowett, Early Georgian furniture – ‘Dressing mirrors’ Page 267 onwards

DIMENSIONS

Height: 32.3 in. (82 cm) Width: 18 in. (46cm) Depth: 8.66 in. (22cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

85

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A fine red japanned and chinoiserie decorated late 18th-century tavern clock This fine late eighteenth-century tavern clock with a circular white dial is beautifully decorated and signed under the dial on the trunk in a gilt cartouche George Allett LONDON, c. 1780.

The red-japanned case of traditional style has a shaped trunk with a moulded gilt bottom.

The door is finely decorated showing a pavilion and oriental figures in a garden with a tree and birds flying through the air. The trunk sides are embellished by scrolling vines with leaves. The round white painted dial has a chapter ring with Roman hour numerals, a minute circle and outside Arabic five-minute marks. The black painted brass hands have heart shaped tips. The A-shaped eight-day movement has four knopped pillars, a four wheel train, anchor escapement with a long steel rod pendulum and brass bob. It is driven by a lead weight.

86

ATTRIBUTION/BY

George Allett LONDON, c. 1780

PROVENANCE

Private collection Netherlands

DIMENSIONS

Height: 46 in. (117 cm) Width: 4 in. (10 cm) Depth: 7 in. (18 cm) Dial: 23.22 in. (59cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

87

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine 18th Century Italian Parquetry Commode A fine late 18th century parquetry two-drawer commode, with grey marble top, all veneered in calamander, boxwood, ebony, padouk, olivewood and walnut, having medallion figural brass handles and escutcheons, raised upon square tapering legs.

88

PROVENANCE

Private UK collection

DIMENSIONS

Height: 36 in. (91.44 cm) Width: 44 in. (111.76 cm) Depth: 22.5 in. (57.15 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

89

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A fine 18th-century George III mahogany bowfront stick barometer The mahogany-veneered case has an austere form with only the moulded caddy top and the urn-shaped cistern cover to break its soberness. The silvered register plates are protected by a bowed glass, the recorder with vernier scale being operated by a knob below the register plate. The register plates are calibrated for 27 – 31 inches on the right, whereas on the left the pertaining weather conditions are engraved: FAIR, Change and RAIN. The makers have signed the barometer at the top of the scales in the following manner; W & S Jones Holborn LONDON. A special feature of this barometer is that it has a leather-based cistern.

William and Samuel Jones practiced in the Holborn Hill area of London from about 1787, when their father John died and left them the business, until about 1805, and later in the High Holborn area. They were very technically accomplished, William in his younger years having worked for both Benjamin Martin and George Adams.

90

BY

William & Samuel Jones.

LITERATURE

N. Goodison, English Barometers 1680-1860, Woodbridge: 1985, pp. 84, 166, 168-169

DIMENSIONS

Height: 38.58 in. (98 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

91

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine 18th Century English Terrestrial Pocket Globe by Cary, London, 1791 A rare 3½ inch diameter example of Cary’s pocket globe in a superb green shagreencovered case with two silvered hook and eye clasps. The terrestrial globe, itself 3 inches in diameter, covered with copper-engraved hand-coloured gores applied to a plaster and papier maché sphere, the case lined on one half with a map entitled “The World as it was known in Cæsar’s time agreable to D’Anville”, on the other half with “A Table of Latitudes and Longitudes of Places not given on this Globe”. The outer circumference of the spherical case is banded in a silvered metal.

All three voyages of Captain James Cook are marked on the globe, suggesting both the public and Cary’s fascination with these feats of maritime endeavour.

92

BY

Cary’s (Maker)

LITERATURE

Dahl, Edward H., ‘Sphaerae Mundi’, p.96; Dekker, Elly, ‘Globes at Greenwich’, 1999, pp. 293-295; van der Krogt, Peter, ‘Old Globes in the Netherlands’, 1984, p,96.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 3.25 in. (8.26 cm) Diameter: 3.25 in. (8.26 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

93

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Early 18th Century George I Figured Walnut Bureau Bookcase, England Circa 1720 A superb and exceptionally well proportioned early 18th century figured walnut ‘pagoda topped’ double dome bureau bookcase, circa 1720 England.

The upper section is surmounted with what is believed to be the original solid walnut finials and soft bevelled mirror plates, opening to a removal bank of walnut veneered and feather banded drawers, cantered by pigeonholes below two shelves. Candle slides are neatly stowed below the bookcase doors to reflect the light.

To the moulded bureau, the fall opens to reveal pigeonholes, long and short asymmetric drawers each beautifully veneered in figured walnut and feather banded, cantered by a cupboard door which neatly conceals an open compartment and drawer. Below the fall, two short and two long graduating oak lined drawers are each book-matched in superb sections of hand-cut figured walnut veneers over bun feet.

94

ATTRIBUTION

In the manner of Peter Miller

PROVENANCE

Private Edinburgh Collection

LITERATURE

Mallett’s Great English Furniture, London: Bullfinch Press 1991, p.248, fig 287, by Lanto Synge, English Furniture 1660 – 1714 From Charles II to Queen Anne, by Dr Adam Bowett, Woodbridge: Antique Collector’s Club, 2002 Chapter 7 Case Furniture 1689 – 1714 pp.221-223 fig. 7:53 A walnut bureau bookcase of the same form and period sold from the private collection of Patricia Kluge at Albemarle House in Virginia, USA on the 9th June 2010

DIMENSIONS

Height: 90.56 in. (230 cm) Width: 40.56 in. (103 cm) Depth: 23.23 in. (59 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

95

Alexander George Fine Antiques

William and Mary Seaweed Marquetry Strong Box Firmly Attributed to Gerrit Jensen A 17th century William and Mary seaweed or arabesque marquetry strong box, with firm attribution to the royal cabinetmaker, Gerrit Jensen, circa 1680-1700, England.

This is one of only three 17th century examples of strong box, identified to have been produced in seaweed or arabesque marquetry, one of which is in the Duke of Devonshire Collection at Chatsworth House and the other at Ham House. Jensen (active 1680-d.1715) was of Dutch or Flemish origin. He was known to be working in London from a premises in St. Martin’s Lane by 1680 and was the only cabinetmaker working in England during this period, known to have used metal inlays and elaborate ‘seaweed’ or ‘arabesque’ marquetry.

Among other pieces supplied to important houses and royal palaces such as Whitehall, St James, Somerset House, Kensington, Windsor Castle, Hampton Court and the royal residence at Newmarket, he also supplied a strongbox to the 1st Duke of Richmond.

96

ATTRIBUTION

Firmly Attributed to Gerrit Jensen

LITERATURE

Ham House Collection, National Trust, Reference: 139751.1

DIMENSIONS

Height: 9.06 in. (23 cm) Width 13.78 in. (35 cm) Depth: 10.24 in. (26 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

97

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Early 19th Century English Bronze Horizontal Sundial by Cary of London An early 19th-century horizontal sundial by Cary London.

This 12” diameter bronze sundial is finely engraved and has a 16 point compass rose in the middle. The sundial was meant to be used outside in a garden on the latitude of the London area. The engraved base plate, which is of fantastic deep and original patina, has a Roman chapter ring with minute divisions, on which the gnomon casts its shadow and the time can be read.

In addition, there is a rare equation-of-time ring, which relates solar time to mean time (being the time we read on a clock). The difference between solar time and real-time varies from +16 to -15 minutes. This is reflected on this ring and is facilitated by the words Slower Watch and Watch Faster.

98

BY

Cary of London

DIMENSIONS

Height: 6.89 in. (17.5 cm) Depth: 12.01 in. (30.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

99

Alexander George Fine Antiques

17th Century Carved Oak Wainscot Chair, The Yorkshire Chair A superb and original carved Wainscot armchair, circa 1660. Yorkshire This superb Wainscot chair dates from the middle of the 17th century and is most likely from the Leeds area of Yorkshire, with a large lozenge designed panel to the back and carved crest rail and ears of scrolling design incorporating berries. Raised on turned gun barrel legs, each joined by moulded horizontal stretchers.

What is most unusual about this fine example, other than its superb condition, is the detailed lunette carving to the frieze, not only to the face but also to the sides.

It should be noted that the chair has the most wonderful deeply patinated surfaces throughout and is of great colour.

DIMENSIONS

100

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 45.67 in. (116 cm) Width: 22.84 in. (58 cm) Depth: 21.26 in. (54 cm) Seat Height: 20.48 in. (52 cm)

101

Alexander George Fine Antiques

17th Century Lantern Alarm Clock by Johannes Quelch, Oxford An English 17th-century lantern clock made of brass and iron, circa 1665-1670. The clock consists of going and striking trains, as well as an alarm and is driven by lead weights. The front fret shows two engraved dolphins and floral and foliate motifs. The corners and the centre of the dial are richly engraved with tulips and a Tudor rose. Unusually the side frets are engraved too.

The maker has signed the clock on the front: Johannes Quelch in Oxford The time is indicated by a single iron hand on the brass chapter ring with Roman hour, half-hour and quarter-hour divisions. The half-day-going movement has going work with verge escapement and balance wheel (reinstated). Its duration is about 12 hours and it is regulated by adding or removing lead shot to the going-train weight. The striking work, which is controlled by a count wheel, indicates each hour fully on a bell, mounted in an embellished bell strap.

102

BY

Johannes Quelch, Oxford

DIMENSIONS

Height 40 in. (101.6 cm) Width 15 in. (38.1 cm) Depth: 20 in. (50.8 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

103

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Portrait of a young nobleman, with strong resemblance to Prince William of Orange.

Possibly by Willem van Hornthorst (1596-1666), in a period carved gilt-wood frame.

It has been noted by the Rijksmuseum that they could not confirm the sitter, but that this painting shows strong similarities and influence to the work of the artist Willem van Horthorst. The National Portrait Gallery in London could offer no opinion as to the artist but felt the sitter certainly bore strong resemblance to Prince William III of Orange in his teen years. This beautiful portrait set within a magnificent 17th century original Dutch giltwood frame, very much of the style later adopted and perfected by the master wood carver Grinling Gibbons (1648-1721).

104

ATTRIBUTION

Possibly by Willem van Hornthorst (1596-1666)

DIMENSIONS

Frame height: 26.25 in. (66.68 cm), Frame width: 22.25 in. (56.52 cm) Painting height: 16.75 in. (42.55 cm), Painting width: 12.75 in. (32.39 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

105

Alexander George Fine Antiques

17th Century William and Mary Olive Oyster Chest on Stand or Table Box A fine and extremely rare 17th century William and Mary baroque olive oyster chest on stand or ‘table box’, circa 1675-1690.

The exquisitely designed top, cross-grain moulded and holly banded, is decorated in many symmetrical line strung patterns in a geometric fashion, each incorporating hand-cut oyster of olive and opening to reveal a baize lined interior.

Similarly, the holly banded frieze and oak-lined base drawer are each decorated in bookmatched oysters of olive, inside opposing break arches of box, each book-matched and placed with precision.

Olive oysters are placed in roundels to the crossbanded sides and a gilt brass carrying handles are fixed to each centre. Raised on a later wavy stretcher, barley twist legs and bun feet.

This piece would make a fantastic silver chest.

DIMENSIONS

106

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 34.06 in. (86.5 cm) Width: 38.98 in. (99 cm) Depth: 26.38 in. (67 cm)

107

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Fine Brass Pocket Sundial and Compass by Michael Butterfield Paris A fine brass Anglo-French octagonal pocket sundial with compass by Michael Butterfield, circa 1700.

The sundial can be used anywhere between latitudes of 40° and 60° covering Southern Spain and Italy north to Scandinavia. The elaborately engraved base plate has various Roman chapter rings with subdivisions on which the folding hinged gnomon (a triangular flap) casts its shadow. It is signed by the maker in the following manner: Butterfield A Paris. On one side is a glazed recessed compass, with a blued steel hand, to position the instrument in such a way that the time can be read. The triangular gnomon is richly engraved and can be set for a particular latitude by sliding the gnomon up or down, the latitude being indicated by the beak of a figured engraved bird. The folding gnomon and cut corners enable the dial to be carried in the pocket.

The underside shows the latitudes of various European places, including London and Rome.

108

BY

Michael Butterfield, Paris

LITERATURE

Tardy, Dictionnaire des horlogers français, Paris, 1971, p. 103 C. Cowham, A Dial in Your Poke, Cambridge, 2004, passim H.Higton, Sundials, An Illustrated History of Portable Dials, London, 2001, passim

DIMENSIONS

Height: 2.56 in. (6.5 cm) Width: 2.29 in. (5.8 cm) Depth: 0.32 in. (8 mm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

109

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Charles II olive oyster floral marquetry table This accomplished Charles II marquetry table clearly bears the influence of Dutch and French masters of marquetry working in the last quarter of the 17th century, such as, Gerrit Jensen, Pierre Golle and Jan Van Meekeren. Golle, a Dutchman who moved to Paris to work for the court was at the forefront of richly inlaid designs of floral motifs and renowned for his marquetry of brass and tortoiseshell, made famous by his son-in-law André Charles Boulle.

Golle’s son,Cornelius, emigrated after the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes (1685) and by 1689 was working with the London cabinetmaker Gerrit Jensen, supplying marquetry furniture in the latest Parisian taste to the court of William III and Mary II and Queen Anne.

In style Jensen’s furniture is consistently French in form, and particularly close to the work of Pierre Golle, Boulle’s famous predecessor. Golle’s will mentions a sum of money owed to Jensen for glue suggesting that close contact existed between the two masters.

110

BY

Gerrit Jensen (worked c.1680-1715)

PROVENANCE

Nocton Hall, Lincoln

LITERATURE

A History Of English Furniture, By Percy MacQuoid, Page 148, plate XXII – Property of Lord Zouch of Haryngworth.

English Furniture 1660-1714 From Charles II to Queen Anne, By Adam Bowett – Page 60, Page 61 Plate 2:43 (1675-90), Page 116 Plate: 4:20 (1684), Page 117 Plate: 4:21, (1670-85), Page 118 Plate: 4:22 (1680).

Dictionary Of English Furniture Makers 1660-1840, Furniture History Society – Gole, Cornelius, page 348.

Dictionary Of English Furniture Makers 1660-1840, Furniture History Society – Jensen, Gerrit, page 485, 486, 487.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 28.5 in. (72.39 cm) Width: 38.5 in. (97.79 cm) Depth: 36.5 in. (92.71 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

111

Charles II olive oyster floral marquetry table

Alexander George Fine Antiques

17th Century Hague Clock Signed by Pieter Visbagh, circa 1675 Unusually small Hague clock made c. 1675 by Pieter Visbagh, who was apprenticed by Salomon Coster. The latter made the first pendulum clock according to the instructions of Christiaan Huygens, the internationally renowned scientist who developed the idea of applying a pendulum to a clock movement.

The delicate ebony-veneered case has a moulded broken arch pediment, whilst the door is flanked by plain half round Doric capital-capped columns on high bases. A traditional star adorns the internal face of the case surrounded by well-chosen cuts of olive in a parquetry fashion. This design of star was also popular in England around this time and was almost certainly introduce by the Huguenots.

The two-day movement is driven by a compact single barrel. The going train has its original verge escapement with a silk suspended pendulum between cycloidal cheeks, also a design by Huygens to improve the trajectory of the pendulum bob.

114

BY

Pieter Visbagh, circa 1675

DIMENSIONS

Height: 13.78 in. (35 cm) Width: 9.45 in. (24 cm) Depth: 5.12 in. (13 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

115

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Queen Anne Walnut Dome Topped Corner Cupboard A superb and rare Queen Anne (1702-1714) dome top break-arch corner cupboard, mounted with carved gilt-wood finials.

When you start to break down the details deployed by the designer/cabinet maker, it shows how accomplished the technical aspects are of this relatively simple piece. The book matched figured walnut break-arch door is surrounded by a double cross banding of walnut, a double inlay of feather-banding, terminating to a shape known as ‘cyma recta’ or ogee, which is outlined by an inset cross grain moulding of the same form, and a further banding of cross-grain walnut, feather banding and edged with a cross-grain single step ovolo. Veneers of cross grain walnut surround the door into canted corners.

The transition from the flat surface into canted corners is cleverly edged with featherbanding, with half the banding being inlaid to each surface. Finally, carved gilt-wood finials of urn and flame form are mounted on solid chimneys of walnut.

DIMENSIONS

116

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 46.46 in. (118 cm) Width: 23.23 in. (59 cm) Depth: 13 in. (33 cm)

117

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Extremely Rare George III 18th Century QuarterStriking Bracket Clock, Signed An extremely rare George III 18th century ebonized quarter-striking bracket clock by Thomas Gardner, London, circa 1760.

A fantastically rare and intricate bracket clock paying homage to merriment. The dial is elaborately decorated with drinking companies as well as scenes of dancing revellers rotating as the clock runs. The elaborate theme continues inside: a triple gut fusee movement with its original verge escapement and short pendulum. The quarters chime on eight bells with eight hammers, on the hour followed by the hour on an additional bell.

The case itself is ebonised and surmounted with four fine pineapple finials. The chamfered corners are fluted and brass reeded with silk-backed pierced ebony sound frets.

This impressive clock entertains throughout.

118

ATTRIBUTION/BY

Thomas Gardner (Clockmaker)

LITERATURE

Brian Loomes, Watchmakers and Clockmakers of the World, London, 2006, p. 291.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 22.45 in. (57 cm) Width: 13.78 in. (35 cm) Depth: 7.88 in. (20 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

119

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A Large 18th Century Giltwood Rococo Mirror A sensational large 18th-century giltwood Rococo mirror with original soft bevelled mirror plate, England, circa 1750.

The foliate deeply carved and pierced surround with cabochon cresting flanked by scrolling acanthus leaves, the conforming sides and apron with conforming rocaille scrollwork and other motifs, with rectangular original soft bevelled mirror plate.

This beautiful large mirror could be used as a hall or overmantel mirror and would add significant character to any setting.

DIMENSIONS

120

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 53.55 in. (136 cm) Width: 38.59 in. (98 cm) Depth: 2.76 in. (7 cm)

121

Alexander George Fine Antiques

George III Chippendale Period Mahogany Serpentine Chest Dating from one of the most famous and highly celebrated periods in English furniture history, now known as the ‘Chippendale period’. This fine George III mahogany serpentine chest is very much in the manner of Thomas Chippendale. The exaugurated serpentine shape to the face, top, and sides with moulded edge, over four long graduated, cockbeaded, oak-lined drawers, are each fitted with original gilt brass handles, locks and escutcheons.

Unusually, the mahogany base moulding is japanned and rests on all four original shaped feet. It should be noted that this chest is of exceptional quality and is in fantastic original condition including, bracket feet, locks and handles. A notably similar chest resides at Paxton House, to which both Thomas Chippendale and Robert Adam supplied furniture to.

See page 117 in Christopher Gilberts ‘The Life and Works of Thomas Chippendale.

122

ATTRIBUTION

In the manner of Thomas Chippendale

LITERATURE

Gilbert, Christopher. The Life and Works of Thomas Chippendale (1978), p. 117.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 34.26 in. (87 cm) Width: 41.34 in. (105 cm) Depth: 22.45 in. (57 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

123

Alexander George Fine Antiques

George III Ebonized Eight-Day Twin Fusee Table Clock by O. Hamley A lovely late George III single pad ebonized eight-day, twin fusee table clock with original verge escapement and rack striking by O. Hamley, circa 1800-1815.

The moulded single pad ebonized domed top case with original carrying handle is raised on all four of its original ogee bracket feet onto a detailed base moulding. Gilt-brass sound frets adorn the sides and front in a ‘fish scale’ pattern backed with bright burgundy silk.

The enameled white dial displays Roman numerals, minute and quarter-hour markers housed inside a gilt-brass bezel and domed glass, signed Hamley, Warwick Place, London.

The clock features a strike/silent switch on the front dial and a repeat to the right-handside. The backplate has border engraving and a short pendulum.

124

BY

O. Hamley, circa 1800-1815

LITERATURE

O. Hamley is recorded in Loomes (2006) as being active, circa 1811. He also worked at Bedford Row.

DIMENSIONS

Height: 15.75 in. (40 cm) Width: 10.63 in. (27 cm) Depth: 7.88 in. (20 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

125

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Pair of 18th-Century English Rococo Gilt Bronze Andirons or Firedogs An exceptional pair of 18th century English Rococo gilt bronze andirons or fire dogs.

The bold shape of these andirons relate to designs of Thomas Johnson (1714–1778), one of London’s pioneers of the ‘Modern’ or French style, later known as Rococo. In the 1750s he published several books of designs which were widely used for things like ceiling moulding.

These books include 12 Girandoles in 1755, The Book of the Carver in 1758 and monthly between 1755 and 1758, 150 New Designs. He also had a great influence on Ince and Mayhew’s book, The Universal System of Household Furniture.

126

ATTRIBUTION

In the manner of Thomas Johnson

DIMENSIONS

Height: 25 in. (63.5 cm) Width: 13 in. (33.02 cm) Depth: 4 in. (10.16 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

127

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A Fine 18th-century Queen Anne Burr Walnut Eight-Day Longcase Clock A superb early 18th-century eight-day Queen Anne longcase clock by the famous maker Christopher Gould, c. 1705-10.

The exquisite burr walnut veneered oak case is of the highest quality, having a square hood and a trunk door framed with walnut D-mouldings. The hood has fine sound frets and is flanked by ebonised columns with gilt wooden capitals and bases. It has viewing windows to the sides. The base, which is in perfect harmony with the hood, has shallow stepped mouldings, typical of the period and a plinth at the bottom.

The eight-day movement has going and striking trains and is in remarkably original state.

The going train has anchor escapement with seconds pendulum, while the striking is regulated by an inside count wheel. The beautifully executed 12-inch brass dial has a silvered chapter ring, a subsidiary seconds ring under the XII and finely engraved date aperture above the VI in the matted centre.

128

BY

Christopher Gould

DIMENSIONS

Height: 87.41 in. (222 cm) Width: 17.72 in. (45 cm) Depth: 9.85 in. (25 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

129

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Diminutive 17th century William and Mary Olive Oyster Miniature Chest of Drawers From the reign of King William & Queen Mary (1688-1702) England.

The finely crossbanded and cross-grain moulded top is beautifully veneered in roundels of hand-cut olive oysters and lined in boxwood stringing in a geometric form. Over two short and two long graduating oak lined drawers, each veneered in oysters of olive and crossbanded. The top drawers opening on hidden spring catches. Similarly, the sides are also beautifully veneered in oysters of olive and vertically banded in figured long-grain olive.

It should be noted that Miniature or ‘toy’ chests from 17th century England are extremely rare and no rarer than one veneered in olive oysters. To our knowledge, this chest is the only example available to purchase in the world.

DIMENSIONS

130

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 12.21 in. (31 cm) Width: 13.59 in. (34.5 cm) Depth: 9.06 in. (23 cm)

131

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Engraved Eight-Day Striking and Repeating Carriage Clock by Perregaux Au Locle The superb engraved gilt gorge brass case has facetted glass panels to all sides so that the movement is almost entirely visible. The top has a large rectangular window which allows full view of the original silvered platform escapement. At the back, there is a glazed door giving access to the winding and setting arbors, the functions of which are explained indications in French. The clock is surmounted by a typically shaped carrying handle.

The rectangular enamel dial has a Roman chapter ring with an outer minute track with five-minute markers. The time is indicated by a fine pair of blued-steel fleur-de-lys hands.

Below is a smaller subsidiary Arabic ring which indicates the alarm time with a blued steel pointer. The maker has marked the dial in the following manner: PERREGAUX AU LOCLE. The striking indicates the hour fully and the half hours with a single stroke on a bell. In addition, it has a repeat button at the top, with which the last hour struck can be repeated at will. The backplate is signed by the maker in the following manner PERREGAUX AU LOCLE.

132

BY

Perregaux Au Locle

DIMENSIONS

Height: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm) Width: 3.15 in. (8 cm) Depth: 2.96 in. (7.5 cm)

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

133

Alexander George Fine Antiques

Large 17th Century William and Mary Figured Walnut Cushion Mirror The age patinated mercury mirror plate is bordered with a fine cross-grain ogee moulding.

Similarly, the pulvinated convex cushion frame is decorated in figured walnut and edged with a cross-grain ovolo moulding.

This mirror is a large example of its type.

DIMENSIONS

134

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 29.14 in. (74 cm) Width: 25.99 in. (66 cm) Depth: 3.15 in. (8 cm)

135

Alexander George Fine Antiques

A Fine William and Mary 17th-Century Olive Oyster Lace Box A Fine Late 17th Century Olive Oyster ‘Lace Box’ of Small Proportions.

Circa 1680-1690 England.

The cross-grain moulded and holly banded top is finely veneered in hand-cut pieces of olive cut horizontally, known as ‘olive oyster veneering’. A roundel using this technique is placed in the centre of the top, bordered with a line stringing of holly, a further outer ring of oysters is also line strung and four large oysters sit to each corner. Raised on its original slot hinges, the cleated top appears to retain the original red japanned interior as does the base.

Similarly, the cross-grain moulded frieze is veneered in olive to the sides and face but, this time, hand-cut sections of figured olive. The back is veneered in lacewood. Raised on its original slot hinges the cleated top appears to retain the original red japanned interior as does the base.

DIMENSIONS

136

CONTACT: mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com

Height: 3.15 in. (8 cm) Width: 11.82 in. (30 cm) Depth: 9.85 in. (25 cm)

137

Alexander George Fine Antiques GALLERY VISITS BY APPOINTMENT

www.alexandergeorgeantiques.com mark@alexandergeorgeantiques.com Telephone: +44 (0)1367 243304 Mobile: +44 (0)7787 536199 85 London Street, Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8AA