A George II carved giltwood console table, circa 1730, in the manner of William Kent

the Brescia later marble top above a frieze with stylised foliage, supported by an eagle with outstretched wings, on a rockwork base and ebonised plinth

Supplied to the family of the current vendors by the renowned furniture historian R.W. Symonds in 1942.

An impressive table in fair restored condition but would benefit from further attention. The associated marble top with a sizeable repaired break across the top left corner, which has been sensitively executed and does not detract. Otherwise, the top has typical minor chips and scratches consistent with age and use. The surface of the table has probably been re-gilt and a varnish applied, which would improve with the removal of the varnish subject to taste. The left return with a large detached section of carving which is present but will need restoration. There are other small breaks and losses to carved detail, notably to the foliate and strap work elements applied to the left frieze and the carving to the right return which would benefit from attention. There is movement to joints consistent with age, most evident at the point where the eagles wings meet its body. The plinth has been re-painted and has a small loss to the rosette moulding to left corner which does not detract. Structurally the table is sound and has been fitted with a strengthening baton to the rear rail and base. Generally with minor old marks, chips and scratches consistent with age and use.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This console table displays hallmarks typical to the designs of Palladian architect and furniture designer William Kent (1685 – 1748). Kent’s championing of the Neoclassical marked him as one of the greatest influences on British taste. In turn he was no doubt inspired by his tour of Italy, 1709 – 1719, where he spent much time studying the ruins of ancient Rome. Kent’s furniture design often drew inspiration from Roman mythology, the eagle in the present table meant to represent the God Apollo, or Grecian counterpart Zeus. One can see a clear correlation in Kent’s drawing in Alexander Pope's Odyssey (1725-26), Vol. I, book 2., p. 93 where Kent draws ‘Zeus’s warning’ (See S. Weber ed., William Kent Architect, Designer, Painter, Gardener, 1685 – 1748, London, 1984, p. 119, fig. 42). Another thought is Kent would have seen the eagle used regularly as a symbol for the might of the Roman Empire. Console tables with such a ‘Kentian’ design have appeared in the market; however the present work is notable for inclusion of sprays of acanthus leaves within the frieze and the rosettes carved into the mouldings. Possibly the most comparable table stylistically is owned by the national Trust and can be viewed Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire, NT 652695.2, the Sudbury example differs very slightly for example the top moulding incorporates a Vitruvian design.  It is interesting to note that the present lot was supplied by the respected historian R. W. Symonds who discusses the group at length remarking on their importance to furniture makers and Palladian houses, see Symonds. R., ‘The Vogue For The Eagle Table’, Country Life, 10 January 1957, pp. 52 – 52.