TABLES  nests of
Antique nests of tables are illustrated by Sheraton in his Cabinet Directory of 1803 and have been much reproduced since then. They were described as ‘quartetto’ tables and, while Sheraton envisaged them as useful for needlework, George Smith in his Household Furniture of 1808 saw them in their more modernly accepted role  for refreshments. A rosewood set with the collared embellishment shown by Sheraton in his design. The clawfeet are curved over in ogee form. c. 1810
An unusual table design similar to a set illustrated by Edwards as coming from Leighton Hall, Lancashire, a house owned by Robert Gillow. It has satinwood and walnut veneer on the table tops and a chequer board inlaid on the smallest table. The nicely-turned cabriole legs are ebonised and have three tiers of stretchers. The smallest table also has a scooped tray between the bottom stretchers, perhaps for games pieces. c.1810
A papier mache set with varied top decoration including an inlaid and painted landscape as well as a chequer board.
A ‘quintetto’, with dragons decorating the japanned top surfaces and carved heads on the feet. The uprights are turned and reeded but the stretchers are heavy.