George III mahogany serpentine commode in the manner of Henry Hill of Marlborough

Stock Code: 2294 - SOLD

Description: A fine George III mahogany serpentine commode in the manner of Henry Hill of Marlborough, utilising fine figured mahogany veneers throughout, retaining excellent colour and patina. The top with serpentine front, shaped sides with moulded edge. Below an arrangement of three graduated serpentine drawers fitted with original gilt brass swan neck handles, bordered by serpentine shaped outstanding front edge corners. A lower shaped apron joins the outswept feet. A wonderful piece in fine original condition.

Further Information: Henry Hill of Marlborough was active from 1740 until his death in 1778 and was based in the town of Marlborough in Wiltshire, which is conveniently situated between London and Bath, a very fashionable town at the time. Henry Hill established himself not only as a cabinetmaker, but also a coach-maker, an auctioneer, an estate agent and an insurance company representative. He had a large client list which included members of the aristocracy such as the Duke of Somerset at Maiden Bradley, the Earl of Radnor at Longford Castle and Lord Methuen at Corsham Court, Wiltshire. This elegant commode is designed in the George III 'picturesque' fashion, and evolved from 'French Commode Table' patterns in Thomas Chippendale's -'The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker's Director', 1754 (pls. XLIII and XLV).

Actress Margaret Rawlings, was a hit playing Lady MacBeth and a myriad of other parts on both sides of the Atlantic during the 1930's. Her wartime marriage to Metal Box chairman and passionate collector Sir Robert Barlow, encouraged her interest in collecting and latterly saw her making her home in Wendover, Buckinghamshire.

Condition: Excellent. Possible minor old restorations, waxing. Brassware apparently original.

Country of Origin: England

Origin/Age: English, George III, circa 1770

Provenance: Lady Barlow, ne Margaret Rawlings 1906-1996, widow of Sir Robert Barlow, Chairman of Metal Box.

Maker: In the manner of Henry Hill of Marlborough

Dimensions: Height 33.50 inches (85.09cm) Width 48.00 inches (121.92cm) Depth 23.50 inches (59.69cm)

Price: £26,900