The furniture historian, author and advisor, Robert Wemyss Symonds (1889-1958) exerted a singular influence on collectors of English furniture in the middle of the twentieth century, just as he dominated writing on the subject. Between 1921 and 1958 his five major books and countless articles informed and then reflected the taste of a generation. Among those he advised on their collections were Percival Griffiths (d. 1938) and J.S. Sykes, whose collections were the source of the majority of illustrations in his published works. Another collector he advised was Samuel Messer, whose landmark sale took place at Christie's in December 1991.
Symonds laid particular emphasis on original patination, a well-balanced design and good quality carving and timber. Unlike many collectors today where the provenance is paramount, Symonds' primary concern was that the piece stood on its own merits, with or without an illustrious background.

The table offered here was acquired for Symonds' London neighbour, among other pieces bought from prominent London dealers including Mallett, Jetley, Ronald Lee and Morton Lee. Important furniture from the same collection was sold at Christie's London, 10 July 2003, including a George II mahogany side table, lot 12 (£69,310 including premium) and another, lot 13 (£53,750 including premium).