Label.

28 x 43 x 44 in. 

Length extended 5 ft. 2 in.

Sotheby's catalog note: A Regency Mahogany Patented Extension Dining Table by William Pocock Circa 1805. Tilting above a turned standard, the two-part top opening to a self-acting pulley mechanism automatically lifting a leaf from the center, the frieze affixed with an engraved brass plaque: Pococks Patent/Warehouse/ Southampton House/261 Southampton Strt/ Covent Garden/London. William Pocock (1750- 1825) began his career as a carpenter and builder but by 1801 had established himself as a cabinetmaker and upholsterer with premises at 26 Southampton Street, Covent Garden. Joined by his son John in 1809, the firm was named Pocock & Co., and later Pocock & Son. In 1805, Pocock took out a patent for an extending dining table where 'the important feature of the table was the ease with which it could be expanded. If one side of the table was pulled towards one, the other side automatically receded, and a leaf rose from the centre to fill the space'. The present table was produced at this address as indicated by the brass plaque affixed to the frieze. Known for his patent furniture, other examples include 'The Patent Boethema or Rising Mattress', designed to help the user sit up in bed, and the so called 'Go to bed chair' intending to assist the infirm in getting in and out bed, as well as the 'Invalid Vibrating Pendulum Bed' which gently rocked the bed-ridden, offering a form of exercise which might also lull them to sleep; see Edward T. Joy, 'Pocock- The Ingenious Inventions', Connoisseur, vol. 173, January April 1970; see also Christopher Gilbert, The Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture 1700-1840, W. S. Maney and Son, Ltd., 1996, pp. 44-45 and 375, pi. 735A for a similar maker's plaque.

Wear is consistent with age and use. With scattered scuffing, staining, and wear. The legs with scattered nicks, and fitted with a metal brace underneath. A slight warp to the table top. Missing the wheel to one caster. Structurally sound. 

Notwithstanding this report or any discussion concerning condition of a lot, all lots are offered and sold "as is" in accordance with our conditions of sale.