Carved and gilt ‘eagle’ console tables were highly fashionable in grand neo- Palladian apartments of the second quarter of the 18th century.
Numerous variations survive, but the treatment of these, with fully splayed wings supporting the Vitruvian scroll carved frieze, is relatively unusual and comparisons may be drawn to others by the London maker William Bradshaw (1700-75).
He was probably the “Mr Bradshaw, tapestry weaver of Soho Square” whose work was admired by John Adam (elder brother of Robert Adam) when he visited London in 1748. He had workshops and showrooms in Frith Street, Greek Street and Hanover Square.
Each had a breche violette marble top, although these were in poor condition. A later, and crudely made, rear structure and later gold paint were also problems that will require significant restoration.
They came for sale from a deceased estate with a ‘there to be sold estimate’ of £1000-1500 – a figure that attracted numerous bidders and a trade buyer on March 28.
