This sideboard is an excellent demonstration of the quality and popularity of Gillows-designed furniture. The squared rosettes over the reeded pilasters on the current lot are a feature seen on other Gillows furniture including a bookcase at Dallam Tower, Cumbria (illustrated Susan E. Stuart, Gillows of Lancaster and London 1730-1840, 2008, Woodbridge, p. 379, pl. 450). The influence of this Gillows model is illustrated by a Scottish bookcase made by Young, Trotter and Hamilton for Penicuik House (illustrated Francis Bamford, A Dictionary of Edinburgh Furniture Makers, pl. 74). The form of the mirror-plated superstructure, moulding of the pilasters as well as gadrooned moulding of the plinth and reeded bun feet relate directly to the present lot. The brass gallery and superstructure supports of a chiffonier made by Miles & Edwards (illustrated Christopher Gilbert, Marked London Furniture 1700-1840, 1997, p. 333, fig. 637) suggest that the present lot was made in Gillows’ London workshops. The motif of the gallery and cast of the supports is the same and this indicates that Gillows and Miles & Edwards, a London-based firm, used the same supplier for these metal fittings.
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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
This side cabinet is in good condition and is structurally sound. There are the inevitable marks, scratches and dents due to age and use. Mounts and fittings are original, loss of some gilding to the grilles. The middle door might originally have had a grille. Pleated silk later, in good condition, Minor shrinkage cracks to the frieze. Locks appear to be original, two keys provided.
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Lot 52Sale 21054
ATTRIBUTED TO GILLOWS, CIRCA 1820A GEORGE IV GONCALO ALVES BREAKFRONT SIDE CABINETEstimate: GBP 4,000 - 6,000
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