George III Serpentine Pembroke Table, Henry Hill of Marlborough, circa 1775

A C R O T E R I O N is pleased to offer this rare and exceptionally fine circa 1775 English George III period fruitwood, kingwood, mahogany, and satinwood pembroke table of serpentine form by celebrated cabinetmaker Henry Hill of Marlborough, the 'French-polished' crossbanded and lozenge-matched parquetry rounded rectangular top with shaped hinged leaves atop single full-length drawer with original turned ivory knobs on fluted tapering legs and elongated toupie feet with original brass castors.

Biography:

Henry Hill (fl. 1741–d.1778) was a famed cabinetmaker working in Marlborough, Wiltshire from circa 1741 until his death in 1778. Throughout his career, Hill was prolific in many capacities as a fine cabinetmaker, decorator, auctioneer, and estate agent to some of the most sophisticated patrons of the era. His illustrious clients included Lord John Delaval, 1st Baron Delaval of Ford Castle, Seaton Delaval Hall, and Doddington Hall; the 9th Duke of Somerset at Maiden Bradley; Paul Methuen at Corsham Court; the Calley family at Burderop Park and Overtown House; Lord Bruce, Thomas Brudenell-Bruce, 1st Earl of Ailesbury at Tottenham House; and Henry Hoare at Stourhead House.

Hill’s obituary published in the 'Reading Mercury' on 20 July 1778 read "On Sunday night died, Mr. Henry Hill, of Marlborough, one of the most eminent cabinet-makers and upholsterers in the kingdom; who passed through life with the strictest integrity, on the most benevolent principles; and with every disposition, the most friendly to human nature, advanced with happiness of his fellow creatures."

Literature: Wood, Lucy. 'The Lady Lever Art Gallery Catalogue of Commodes'. London: HMSO, 1993, p. 68, fig. 49.