George II Carved Mahogany Tripod Writing Table

A very rare George II period mahogany tripod writing table, the divided rectangular top with a moulded edge and centre lock with heart shaped escutcheon, opening to reveal a compartmented interior and writing surface covered in blue leather above a long slide to the frieze, a short frieze drawer to one side, raised on a stop-fluted column and cabriole legs ending in carved ball and claw feet with brass castors. Note: The quality and detail of this piece are exceptional from the ingenious pull-out writing slide which supports the top when open to the wonderful fluted and stop fluted column and the fabulously carved ball and claw feet. The heart shaped escutcheon to the top suggests that either this was commissioned by a wealthy patron for his wife or lover or that the maker intended it for his wife.