A fine late Regency burr walnut Davenport by Gillows of Lancaster retaining excellent colour & patina. The sloping rectangular top with inset writing leather, with pierced brass three quarter gallery, opening to reveal the makers stamp “Gillow”, two interior drawers and a double dummy drawer below, on the right hand side a pen and ink drawer folds open and through 90 degrees. The whole top slides forward to allow easier access for writing. Below on the left side a retractable document slide, with dummy drawers below, to the opposite side three mahogany lined drawers with ebony knob handles and a further document slide. To the front and back of the lower section is a rectangular inset panel. The Davenport stands on gadrooned walnut feet. A handsome piece, with good utilisation of burr veneers throughout. The underside of the top drawer signed by cabinetmaker “John Miller” and dated July 1830.

Gillows of Lancaster were probably the most celebrated of all English furniture makers. They were established in the early 18th century, and pieces made by Gillows are very desirable and extremely sought after. The first piece of this ilk was made by Gillows for a Capt Davenport, in the late 18th century, the design permeated to other makers and became a very popular piece for the aristocracy.