George III pollard oak & birds eye maple sofa table

Stock Code: 2216 - SOLD

Description: A rare late George III pollard oak & birds eye maple sofa table. The rectangular top veneered with well figured pollard oak, with ebony line inlaid around the perimeter. At each side a pair of rounded rectangular flaps raise to make a table width of 62 inches. Below four frieze drawers, arranged in two opposing pairs, with ebony inlaid beading and original pollard oak handles. The table has two end supports in the form of a rectangular column, supported by a large ebony inlaid knee, with a pair of s-shaped curved, square section, bird's eye maple veneered, tapering and ebony inlaid legs, terminating in brass capped castors. Both end supports joined by a semi concealed high stretcher.

The use of pollard oak & birds eye maple as opposed to mahogany for a table of this period is indeed quite rare, the table has a lighter feel to it, yet still exudes quality.

Further Information: Pollarding is a pruning system in which the upper branches of a tree are removed, promoting a dense head of foliage and branches. It has been common in Europe since medieval times and is practised today in urban areas worldwide, primarily to maintain trees at a predetermined height.

The bole of the tree, constantly cut back over a period of years, will eventually form a lump, or "burr", which when sawn for veneer, gives a lovely grained, swirling figure. The effect is similar to that of burr walnut with its distinctive speckled grain. Burrs are growths which appear on the side of tree trunks, resulting from a tree undergoing some form of stress.

Condition: Excellent. Some restorations to some veneers on base, waxing. Drawer handles apparently original.

Country of Origin: England

Origin/Age: English, George III, circa 1800

Provenance: Private residence London.

Dimensions: Height 28.50 inches (72.39cm) Width 62.00 inches (157.48cm) Depth 30.00 inches (76.20cm)

Price: £9,900