Superb George III Chippendale Period Mahogany Serpentine, Concertina Action Card Table in the manner of Wright & Elwick of Wakefield, England, retaining original fine colour and patina. Circa 1760. The well patinated top with serpentine front, back and sides with a crisp beautifully carved lozenge and ribbon edge to both lower and upper leaves. The flame mahogany frieze over square reeded chamfered legs with arched carved ears. The top opens to reveal its original dark green baize lined playing surface, the concertina action allowing both back legs to extend forming an off square table with a leg in each corner.
Note: When compared to the more usual "swing leg", the concertina action is a much more elegant and desirable way of supporting a card or tea table when open, as it forms a complete table with a leg in each corner. This table has superb constructional qualities, with tight crisp carvings and the use of finest mahogany throughout, this is truly a choice piece of period English furniture. The adaption of Chippendale patterns and the table’s distinctive Chippendale style and crisp carving are characteristics associated with the work of Wright & Elwick, Cabinet Makers from Soho, London and later moved to Wakefield, Yorkshire.
Richard Wright and Edward Elwick whose partnership lasted from 1747 to 1771, both subscribed to the first edition of Chippendale's Director of 1754 and enjoyed patronage from a large number of stately homes in Yorkshire and throughout the rest of England & Ireland.
Another rare and unusual feature is the serpentine shape at back, see final image.
Condition: Professionally restored by a master restorer. Minor old restorations, wonderful original "fold-over" brass hinges.
Width: 33” (84cm). Depth: (closed) 16.5” (42cm). Height: 30" (76cm).
Location: Dublin City, Ireland.
Provenance: Private Collection Dublin, Ireland.