Irish George II mahogany side table made €30,000 at hammer
Irish furniture of the mid-18th century can be identified by its specific idiosyncrasies, and in particular with tables and stands, where the frieze and aprons served as the area that furniture makers were able to show off their imagination and skill. Scallop shells were some of the most prominent carvings used as decoration on tables from this period. It emerged as an important part of the lexicon of Irish furniture and decorative arts in the 18th century. The pair of doves which also accompany the shell in the frieze of this table further expressed the symbolism of love, peace and harmony. They are position in opposing directions with wings spread, creating a wonderful balance and sense of movement to the carving. The remainder of the frieze is embellished with fleur-de-lys, foliage and rosettes. This Irish c1750 mahogany side table made a hammer price of €30,000 at the James Adam Townley Hall sale today against an estimate of €30,000-€40,000.
A portrait of Sir Francis Wyndham by John Michael Wright (1617-1694) last auctioned at the Adare Manor sale in 1982 made €73,000 at hammer; a half length portrait of Queen Mary attributed to Sir Godfrey Knellar made €22,000; a still life by Nicola Cassisa, Naples (1680-1730) made €15,000; a set of 12 George II silver dinner plates from Drogheda House, Dublin by by Robert Calderwood c1737 made €14,000; a set of four large George III silver candlesticks by Richard Williams, Dublin c1765 made €14,000; a Dutch Book of Hours made €12,000; a George IV twin pedestal partners desk made €11,000; a 19th century Continental School painting of a Red Ibis made €11,000; a French ormolu mounted commode made €11,000; an 18th century Irish mahogany side table made €8,000; a large Donegal carpet made €10,000, a Regency brass inlaid sofa table made €10,000 and a Victorian silver inkwell in the form of a donkey carrying panniers made €11,000.