Pre-eminent 18th Century Scottish cabinet makers, the workshop of Francis and William Brodie was sought out by the highest members of society throughout Edinburgh. Attributed to the workshop, this George III bookcase cabinet features delicate astragal glazed doors leading to circular panel doors outlined with bead moulding. A fine example of Scottish craftsmanship.
LOT 78 | SCOTTISH GEORGE III MAHOGANY BOOKCASE CABINET, ATTRIBUTED TO THE WORKSHOP OF FRANCIS AND WILLIAM BRODIE
Respected members of Edinburgh society, Francis and William Brodie's family were descended from the Brodies of Brodie Castle in Moray. The first son of the barrister, Ludovick Brodie of Whytfield, Franics Brodie trained for 10 years as an apprentice before developing his extremely successful Edinburgh workshop and becoming an important, respected figure in the city.
Francis's accomplishments are perhaps overshadowed by his now infamous son, William Brodie commonly known as Deacon Brodie - as he was elected as Deacon of Wrights and Masons around 1781. William Brodie worked at his father's workshop, going on to inherit his father's practice upon his death and establishing his own reputation as an accomplished cabinetmaker. William or Deacon Brodie's famed 'double life' as a thief and gambler led to his execution in 1788. He is thought to have been the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's novel, ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’.
We are delighted to present this wonderful example of Scottish craftsmanship attributed to the workshop of Francis and William Brodie in our two-day Five Centuries auction as one of the leading highlights.
Selling fine antique furniture has always been at the core of our business, ever since Lyon & Turnbull’s establishment in 1826. Today, our specialist Fine Furniture Auctions department conducts four auctions throughout the year both through our beautiful period saleroom in Edinburgh and via our live online auctions. Our specialists’ knowledge of furniture and the current market are essential to the overall success of sales of antique pieces spanning five centuries of design; from 17th century oak through the finest walnut, mahogany, and satinwood examples of the Georgian, Regency and Victorian periods.