A large 19th century Turkey carpet †
£18,800
Auction: 25 June 2003 at 12:00 BST
Description
the red ground with repeating alternating rows of medallions in five colours, broad multiple borders
46'9" long x 17' 8" wide (approx)
Footnote
This carpet was supplied by Whytock, Reid & Co. of Edinburgh for the New Library of the Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh, in 1877, where it has remained ever since.
The original account for the carpet survives at the College (see illustration). It is dated November 1877 and reads
Bought of Whytock, Reid & Co Cabinet Makers, Upholsterers and Carpet Warehousemen, Importers of Turkey & Indian Carpets and Rugs.
Turkey carpet for hall size 47' 0" X 17'2" = 89 2/3 sq. yds @18/9
£84-1-3
The College of Physicians was established in Edinburgh by Royal Charter in 1681. The college moved to Queen Street in 1848 when they commissioned Thomas Hamilton to build them a new Hall, having sold their former premises on George Street. The Library collection was established with the gift of 'three shelfes (sic) full of books' by Sir Robert Sibbald in 1682. Continually expanding, by 1876 it required the New Library to be added to the Physicians premises to the designs of David and John Bryce.
Whytock, Reid & Co, which still trades in Edinburgh as Whytock & Reid, was established in 1807 by Richard Whytock, and granted a Royal Warrant, which they still hold, in 1838. Whytock teamed up with in 1874 with John Reid of Ayr.
Viewing Details
This carpet can be viewed in situ at The Royal College Physicians, 9 Queen Street, Edinburgh on Tuesday 24th June 2pm-5pm and Wednesday 25th June 8.30-10.30am or by prior arrangement. Contact Sebastian Pryke on 0131 557 8844
Uplift
The purchaser MUST arrange for the carpet to be uplifted by Friday 4th July at a time agreed in advance with the College.
Constantine have viewed the carpet and will provide quotations for uplift and delivery if required. Contact Cathie MacDonald on +44 (0)1236 750055 or email cathiem@constantinemoving.co.uk