IN THE MANNER OF MARSH & TATHAM, CIRCA 1800

The distinctive tapering pilasters and idiosyncratic feet of this fine rosewood and parcel gilt side cabinet are virtually identical to those found on a pair of rosewood chiffoniers, and commode en suite, designed by Henry Holland (d. 1806) for Mrs. (later Lady Elizabeth) Whitbread’s room in the eastern pavilion of Southill, Bedfordshire (F.J.B. Watson, 'The Furniture and Decoration', Southill, London, 1951, figs. 35-36). The interiors and furniture of this room, and adjoining boudoir, show Holland’s 'style at its most French and most refined’, and are the most complete extant example of Holland’s flair. The form and ornamentation of the Southill chiffonniers and commode, and the present example, are highly reminiscent of Marie-Antoinette’s favoured 18th century ébénistes, Beneman and Weisweiler (ibid., p. 23). The furniture at Southill was almost certainly commissioned from Marsh & Tatham by Samuel Whitbread II, Lady Elizabeth’s husband, under the directorship of Holland, during the refurbishment of the house between 1796 and 1802. Marsh & Tatham were part of a group of craftsmen who worked with Holland and marchand-mercier Dominique Daguerre at Southill as well as for the Prince of Wales at Carlton House (Ed. G. Beard, C. Gilbert, The Dictionary of English Furniture Makers 1660-1840, Leeds, 1986, pp. 623-624). The firm is variously listed in late 18th and early 19th century bills and directories reflecting the partnerships of George Elward, Edward Bailey and Richard Saunders, and worked with the Royal family under these various partnerships from 1783 to 1820.
A closely related cabinet was sold Christie’s, New York, 21 October 1999, $40,250 (including premium).