A Large Mid-Nineteenth Century Library Table

English, circa 1880’s Constructed in oak throughout, carved and pierced geometric designs to the legs and frieze with gilt-brass Neo- Gothic handles and escutcheons. The top geometrically divided with end-grain blocks. Locks stamped ‘Pfeil, Stedall & Son’

This huge scale desk or library table has an unusual blend of the Aesthetic and the Neo-Norman. The assured

hand of the designer and the very apparent capability of the cabinetmaker, both currently unknown, have

created a very powerful piece of late 19th century design. If it were 50 years earlier, Thomas Hopper might be

the prime suspect. Perhaps our designer/maker was aware of his work at Penrhyn Castle.

The lock stamp gives an indication of a London maker, certainly a British maker. ‘Pfeil & Stedall’ changed its

trading name in 1867 to ‘Pfeil, Stedall & Son’ and in 1882 to ‘….& Sons’ These datelines seem appropriate to the

age of the desk’s manufacture.