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Lot Essay
The inclusion of laurel finials, ebonised cluster-columns banded with ormolu rings flanking the upper section of this Regency bookcase and ribbon-tied wreaths is characteristic of the work of cabinet-maker, Robert Herring & Son of Fleet Street, London who were also upholsterers, appraisers and undertakers (C. Gilbert, Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture, 1996, p. 264, fig. 491). In business from 1769 to 1839, this period almost certainly covers the individual careers of father and son. A 'Robert Herring' subscribed to Sheraton's Cabinet Dictionary and was named in his list of master cabinet-makers, 1803 (Ed. G. Beard, C. Gilbert, Dictionary of English Furniture Makers, 1986, p. 423).
Closely related applied ribbon-tied wreaths, lotus buds and lion paw feet are found on a bookcase with printed trade label 'FROM HERRING & SON...' (sold Sotheby's 20 November 2007, lot 119, £36,500 including premium).
Other comparable bookcases include:
A Regency bookcase attributed to Robert Herring, sold with later example, Christie's South Kensington, 'The Collection of Will Fisher - Founder of Jamb', 2 February 2012, lot 400, £34,850 (including premium).
Another sold Christie's London, 24 November 2005, lot 147, for £27,600 (including premium).
Closely related applied ribbon-tied wreaths, lotus buds and lion paw feet are found on a bookcase with printed trade label 'FROM HERRING & SON...' (sold Sotheby's 20 November 2007, lot 119, £36,500 including premium).
Other comparable bookcases include:
A Regency bookcase attributed to Robert Herring, sold with later example, Christie's South Kensington, 'The Collection of Will Fisher - Founder of Jamb', 2 February 2012, lot 400, £34,850 (including premium).
Another sold Christie's London, 24 November 2005, lot 147, for £27,600 (including premium).