A GEORGE II MAHOGANY 'PIE-CRUST' TRIPOD TABLE, CIRCA 1755 |

the tilt-top with 'bird-cage' action, top and base associated

Percival D. Griffiths Esq., F.S.A.;
Geoffrey Blackwell Esq., O.B.E. by 1936;
thence by descent until sold Christie's London, 14 June 2001, lot 35

R. W. Symonds, English Furniture from Charles II to George II, 1929, p.233, fig. 192;
R. W. Symonds, ‘Sandridgebury: The Country Residence of Percival D. Griffiths’, Antiques, March 1931, p. 193;
R. W. Symonds, ‘Furniture in the Collection of Mr. Geoffrey Blackwell’, Apollo, vol.XXIII, 1936, p. 198, fig XII;
E. Lennox-Boyd (ed.), Masterpieces of English Furniture: The Gerstenfeld Collection, p. 24, fig. 12.

The top displaying wonderful colour and patina. Marks and scratches to the top and tripod consistent with age and use. The top and base probably associated there is evidence the catch and bearers have been repositioned slightly. Most notably there are two small patches to the bearers that fill the original hinge holes connecting the top block of the bird-cage action with the bearers to the underside of the top. Whilst it is of course feasible that this could be a repair but also raises the possibility which when viewed in conjunction with the moved catch and slightly repositioned bearers may suggest an association. Pedestal with nice surface and richly carved. Missing pin. The table remains an extremely attractive tripod with excellent pedigree.
"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."

The present table is illustrated in R. W. Symonds’ celebratory article on Sandridgebury, the country residence of Percival D. Griffiths’ and setting for what would become one of the most legendary collections of English furniture.