This metamorphic commode/chest-of-drawers combined as a reading/dressing-table and fitted with castors and carrying-handles, has a hinged top with book-rest and concealed swivel candle-trays at the sides, while its legs, disguised as fluted pilasters, are attached to the frieze drawer containing dressing-compartments and a central mirror. This type of ingenious multi-purpose furniture is illustrated in the advertisement print or trade card issued by Thomas Potter, who was in partnership with John Kelsey in the 1730s (illustrated in C. Gilbert and T. Murdoch, John Channon and brass-inlaid furniture, 1730-1760, London, 1993, fig. 11). Interestingly, the pair to this chest is illustrated by P. Macquoid and R. Edwards in The Dictionary of English Furniture, London, rev. ed., 1954, vol. II, p. 44, fig. 39; the cut of the timber is almost identical.
A very similar writing-chest, although with a slightly different drawer arrangement, was sold by Mrs. E.R. Stewart in these Rooms, 16 July 1953, lot 53, while a similar kneehole desk was sold by Mrs. K.M. Moore, also in these Rooms, 10 April 1986, lot 174.
A portrait of R.C. Foster, Esq. by Thomas Francis Dicksee (d. 1895) will be included in the Victorian Pictures, Drawings and Watercolours Sale on 8 November 1996 at King Street.