An Exceptional William IV Mahogany Extending Library Table by Benjamin Taylor & Sons               
 
The finely grained solid mahogany top opening to receive two original leaves, raised upon a pair of robust reeded columns atop a trestle base, terminating to lion's paw feet braced by a flattened stretcher. 
 
Signed on the telescoping runners, B.Taylor & Sons, Dover Street.                                        
 
Dimensions: 
28” high x 39” deep x 53” wide (extending to 98.5” wide).                                                                 
 
This is a superior 19th century library table of exceptional form & proportions, constructed of finely chosen timbers and exhibiting exceptional graining & colour, with an old, waxed surface and a superb patina overall.    
                                                                                                                           
Benjamin Taylor (working 1805-1873) is listed as having worked at 58 Kent St, Southwark, 1805-23; no.81 in 1817; Gt Dover St, Southwark, 1821-beyond; 1840; Roebuck Pl., Gt Dover St., 1823-29; no.’s 67 and 68, 1835-39, and no. 6 in 1839. Then recorded at King William St. in 1837; and at 167 Gt. Dover St. until 1873       
                                                                                                              
Reference Material: 
‘The Dictionary of English Furniture Makers 1660-1840’ by Geoffrey Beard & Christopher Gilbert.