A Pair of George III Gilt-Bronze-Mounted Marquetry Commodes, Attributed To William Moore of Dublin
CIRCA 1790
Height: 37" Width: 41.25" Depth: 19"
Inventory Number 8517-72
Price
$96,000
Description
Each with semi-elliptical tops, inlaid with crossbanded segments of kingwood radiating from a burr-yew center, above a frieze inlaid with swags and ribbons, with central drawer; the lower cabinet with applied upper and lower gilt-bronze molding, the inlaid concave sides and central door opening to an open interior; raised on foliate-inlaid square tapering feet.
Provenances
Provenance: Lord Louth, Louth Hall, Ardee, Co. Louth, Eire.
Illustrated
Though the attribution to William Moore is favorable, other cabinetmakers, such as John Wisdom, also employed the same pattern of burr yew panels on their documented work, see a table supplied to Thomas Cobb at Newbridge (Glin and J. Peill, Irish Furniture, 2007 p. 167, fig. 228).
Additional Information
The simple semi-circular plan of these commodes is characteristic of many late 18th century pieces and was a form greatly favoured by Robert Adam. The overall shape and the swag decoration of these commodes is similar to a commode in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London which is attributed to Moore, see M. Tomlin, The Catalogue of Adam Period Furniture, London, 1972, p.172, U/5.
William Moore (1782-1815) worked for a considerable period with Mayhew and Ince before setting up his own business in Dublin. He worked in Abbey Street between
1785-90 and then moved to Chapel Street, Moore made a commode for Welbeck Abbey in 1782 for the third Duke of Portland. An advertisement in the Dublin EveningPost of 1782, shows how he relied on his connection with his previous employers: ' William Moore most respectfully acknowledges the encouragement he has received, and hopes from his long experience at Mayhew and Ince, London, his remarkable fine coloured woods and elegant finished work, to meet the approbation of all who shall please to honour him with their commands.'