CIRCA 1775-80, ATTRIBUTED TO MAYHEW & INCE

Mayhew and Ince established their workshop in Broad St. in 1759. Although records exist of their commissions, it is extremely difficult to firmly attribute their works to them, owing to the unpredictable variations in style, construction and quality of workmanship throughout the forty years of production. One of the most striking features for which they are renowned is the use of natural coloured woods to create a boldly decorative effect, which can be seen in the present table in the use of fine quality rosewood, crossbanded in tulipwood. A related Pembroke table attributed to the firm with quartered kingwood veneer and similar oval patera to the top and swags overall was sold at Sotheby's Pulborough, 1 March 1983, lot 113 (see L. Wood, Catalogue of Commodes, London, 1994, p. 194, no. 182). Other closely related examples of Pembroke tables attributed to Mayhew and Ince include: one sold Christie's London, 14 November 1996, lot 99 (£14,950); one sold Christie's New York, 13 April, 2000, lot 90 ($30,550); and one sold Christie's New York, January 24-25 2011, lot 553 ($32,900).