Lot 515 , A George III mahogany and tulipwood banded Rudds Table or Reflecting Dressing Table, W.3ft 5.5in.

A George III mahogany and tulipwood banded Rudd's Table or Reflecting Dressing Table, with a central frieze drawer opening to reveal a fitted interior and leather panel writing surface between two hinged pull-out drawers, with integral folding mirrors and with fitted interiors above two smaller drawers, all with circular brass handles, on tapering square section supports and castor feet W.3ft 5.5in.
Estimate £800-1,200

'Rudd's Table or Reflecting Dressing Table' was popularised by its appearance in Hepplewhite's 'The Cabinet Maker and Upholsterers' Guide', where Hepplewhite makes handsome acknowledgement to the original inventor: 'Rudd's Table or Reflecting Dressing Table possesses every convenience which can be wanted or mechanism or ingenuity supply'. The maker who most improved this design was Thomas Shearer. Ralph Fastnedge, in his book 'Shearer Furniture Designs', suggests the table was named after the personable, but notorious, Mrs Rudd. Margaret Caroline Rudd was a prominent 18th century forger, described as a despicable character, who left men trailing in her wake. One such gentleman was Valentine Rudd, who had the misfortune of marrying her. After moving to London, the couple split up and Margaret moved out of their home. However, as they were still married, Mrs Rudd simply went about living her life while putting it all on the bill of her estranged husband, resulting eventually in Valentine being put into debtor's prison. Margaret then became attached to identical twin brothers- Daniel and Robert Perreau. Although Daniel was a gambler, his brother was happily married and a successful businessman. All of this was blown apart by Mrs Rudd, who dragged both brothers into her world of forgery and crime, all three stood before the Old Bailey in 1775 on forgery charges, the Perreau brothers being found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging. Mrs Rudd, however, used her charm to obtain a not guilty verdict and was released. She died in relative obscurity in 1779.

Top- few shrinkage cracks on top through base of oval centre. Loose veneer in places and 1 or 2 minor losses at edges. General knocks, scuffs, marks consistent with use. Minor spotting and deterioration to folding mirrors but quite reasonable condition.
Central key escutcheon is loose, needs repinning. Left front leg has been repaired at top where it meets the body of dresssing table. An iron bracket running down the back. Restoration is not immediately obvious but noticeable when viewed from underneath.

Overall average condition


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £1,600