AN IRISH GEORGE II MAHOGANY SIDE TABLE CIRCA 1750, the sol...

Hammer

€30,000

AN IRISH GEORGE II MAHOGANY SIDE TABLE CIRCA 1750, the solid rectangular top with thumb moulded edge and foliate carved frieze, centred with scalloped shell and doves on acanthus carved cabriole leg and paw feet. 79cm high, 175cm wide, 76cm deep See Glin & Peill, Irish Furniture, Yale 2007, cat.170, pg.245 for an example of an Irish mahogany coffer-on-stand, c.1750 - 60, in the which the decoration of the frieze with the scallop shell flanked by two doves is identical to the one on this table. Irish furniture of the mid-18th century can be identified by its specific idiosyncrasies, and in particular with tables and stands, where the frieze and aprons served as the area that furniture makers were able to show off their imagination and skill. Scallop shells were some of the most prominent carvings used as decoration on tables from this period. It emerged as an important part of the lexicon of Irish furniture and decorative arts in the 18th century. The shells, which were used in Greek and Roman architecture, and popularised in the Renaissance period, were a sign of fertility and associated with the Aphrodite, goddess of beauty. The symmetrical and attractive form of the scallop shell suited the elegant and at times restrained order of Irish furniture. The pair of doves which also accompany the shell in the frieze of this table further expressed the symbolism of love, peace and harmony. They are position in opposing directions with wings spread, creating a wonderful balance and sense of movement to the carving. The remainder of the frieze is embellished with fleur-de-lys, foliage and rosettes. It has a gracefully waved and scrolling apron. The example in Glin & Peill Irish Furniture, is of a mahogany coffer-on stand, which has a double scallop shell and bordered on either side by the pair of doves. It is noted on this coffer that the escutcheon on the single drawer is similar to those seen on Chinese-export coffers, further linking Irish furniture with the prevailing interest at the time in Chinese and Japanese decorative works due to the increased trade link with the Far East.