Revolving Octagonal Library Table Attributed to Gillows

Almost certainly crafted by the legendary Gillows of Lancaster and London, this monumental mahogany library table is richly decorated. Its striking octagonal design features a rotating top covered in tooled leather and a pyramidal base adorned with intricate carvings of anthemions, lotus flowers, volutes and spandrels. The table's drawers bear Bramahrian patent locks from S. Mordon and Company, the highest quality lock maker of the era. The firm's locks were durable and highly secure, with keys that were extremely complicated to replicate, making this table the perfect place to store important documents.

Founded in 1703 by Robert Gillow, the Gillows firm operated successfully as a family-owned business well into the 19th century. Originally operating from Lancaster, Gillows was especially noted for their quality of workmanship and innovative designs. No other firm in the country had managed to gain as far-reaching and prestigious a level of patronage than that of the Gillows firm, primarily due to the quality and classic nature of their furnishings. Gillows was especially popular with the English nobility and with powerful religious figures throughout the country. Clients included the Earls of Wilton, the Duke of Norfolk, the Earl of Surrey and the Archbishop of York.

Circa 1850

54" diameter x 30" high