Lot 311 , A.W.N. Pugin for Morel & Seddon. An important Gothic revival oak, pollard oak, parcel gilt marquetry centre table, Diam. 4ft 2in. H.2ft

A.W.N. Pugin for Morel & Seddon. An important Gothic revival oak, pollard oak, parcel gilt marquetry centre table, commissioned by King George IV for Windsor Castle, c.1827,
the circular top with a band of shells and leaves in marquetry and pen work, the octagonal stem and triform base with recessed Gothic arched panels supporting fanned ribs in imitation of a Gothic vaulted ceiling, concealed castors, Diam. 4ft 2in. H.2ft 7in.
Estimate £12,000-18,000

Provenance: In 1827, when only fifteen years old, A.W.N Pugin received his first independent commission from the Royal cabinetmaker Morel & Seddon to design furniture for Windsor Castle. See Jeremy Cooper, Victorian and Edwardian Furniture and Interiors, Thames & Hudson 1987 in which he illustrates this table.
The Royal photographer Edward Kemp or Leopold William Cleave photographed this table in 1903, where it was on display in the Picture Gallery, now known as the Queen's Drawing Room, Windsor Castle. Several of the photographs can be viewed on the Royal Collection Trust website RCIN 2936836. At this time the table had an applied giltwood lambrequin apron which is now missing and which may have been branded with a Royal inventory stamp. The website states that the table is no longer in the Royal Collection.
Purchased from Christopher Gibbs Ltd., c.1980 for around £3,500. A letter to Donald Cooper from Christopher Gibbs, dated 21st October states that he can broker a deal for the table from 'a chap up on Yorkshire who wants £4,000 for it, but would take £3,500 cash'.


Diameter 50in. Height 31in. Overall in very good condition, the upper part of the top lifts away from the parcel gilt banded under frame, some rubbing and wear to the parcel gilding around the edges of the frieze, the original frieze has been missing for many years and was clearly missing when photographed for Jeremy Coopers book, there is a groove to the underside of the rim where the frieze would have been fitted, under frame to the table again shows discolouration and wear to the gilding and fair wear and tear from scuffing and use to the feet, but overall it is in good 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 £23,000