Bearing label Meschain & Herve, Fecit, No. 32.  John Street, Tottenham Court Road.

30 1/2 x 41 1/4 x 19 1/2 in., (69 in. high, open).

Illustrated Christopher Gilbert, Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture 1700-1840, pg. 329. Dating the library steps to c. 1775. 

Note: Francois Herve was somewhat of a dark horse in the London furniture world of the 18th century. As a talented chair and cabinet maker he served illustrious clients such as the Prince of Walea, the Duke of Devonshire and Earl Spencer. Interestingly, his name was largely absent from the London directories. Herve was fortunate to be working in the late eighteenth century which saw the development many new ideas for furniture to make the libraries of town and country houses more comfortable and efficient. With the support of wealthy patrons new designs were conceived including a metamorphic table that converts into library steps. A similar model is part of the V&A collection and converts to steps including a full handrail that ingeniously places the lowers steps on the underside of the tabletop which are accessible when hinged out. Although we know little about his life, Francois Herve’s legacy of craftmanship is preserved as a part of England’s great historic collections.

One small loss to timber on underside of top. Nice old patina and surface on top mahogany board. Loosening to one joint at one end. Expected wear and nicks throughout. Minor worming. Sound frame.

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.