Lot 432
A 19th century mahogany and calamander crossbanded twin pedestal desk By T.Willson of London
Auction: 24 June 2009 at 12:00 BST
Description
the rectangular top with tooled leather skiver and moulded edge above three frieze drawers and six short pedestal drawers with gilt metal ring handles, opposed by simulated drawer fronts, on plinth bases with recessed castors, the whole with inlaid boxwood lines, a drawer stamped: 'T.Willson, 68 Great Queen Street, London'
Dimensions
148cm wide, 68cm high, 75cm deep
Footnote
Note: Thomas Willson is listed at 68 Great Queen Street, London as a furniture broker, auctioneer and appraiser (1799-1854). Some speculation exists as to whether Willson's were furniture makers or brokers, notwithstanding a mention of a 'Furniture Works' in the 1838-54 entries. See G.Beard & C.Gilbert, Dictionary of English Furniture Makers 1660-1840 p.985.
Although Thomas Willson traded from this address between 1821 and 1829, the business subsequently continued as Mary Willson & Son and later Matthew Willson. The same stamp appears to have been used throughout.