Edward William Godwin (1833 - 1886)

mahogany, the rectangular top with two D-shaped drop flaps above an asymmetric arrangement of open shelves and a further drop flap, partially reeded uprights joined by multiple stretchers

A rare piece of good overall condition. Old marks and scratches generally, especially to the top, which also has some light staining and a light ring mark. Piece has been repolished. A very few small chips. Underside of one flap with remains of adhesive labels. Some joins slightly separating. Overall, a striking table ready for immediate use and display.
"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."

Godwin's drawings of this form are contained in his sketchbooks at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London (PD E.255-1963, fol. 21). Among the original owners of this model of table was Dame Ellen Terry, the great Shakespearean actress who lived with Godwin from 1868-75. She later moved to Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, Kent, from which the name derives.

Similar examples are in the National Trust collection. (Illustrated in Jeremy Cooper, Victorian and Edwardian Furniture and Interiors, London, 1987, pl. 326; Charlotte Gere and Michael Whiteway, NIneteenth Century Design from Pugin to Mackintosh, London, 1993, 188) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (Susan Soros, E.W. Godwin, Aesthetic Movement Architect and Designer, New York, 1999, fig. 3-1). In total six 'Smallhythe' tables are known to exist, including the example offered here.