AN EXCEPTIONAL EARLY 19TH CENTURY IRISH MAHOGANY TRIPLE-PEDESTAL DINING-TABLE ALMOST CERTAINLY BY MACK, WILLIAMS & GIBTON

AN EXCEPTIONAL EARLY 19TH CENTURY IRISH MAHOGANY TRIPLE-PEDESTAL DINING-TABLE ALMOST CERTAINLY BY MACK, WILLIAMS & GIBTON

Irish, circa 1820-25.

Provenance, Private Collection Ireland. 

A superb example of early 19th century craftsmanship, this distinguished mahogany three-pillar dining table comprises three tilt-top pedestal sections. The rounded rectangular top is crafted from beautifully figured mahogany, notable for its rich colour and deep patination, and finished with a finely reeded edge. The base features three turned beehive-shaped centre pillars, each supported by four reeded sabre legs, terminating in polished brass cappings and castors.

The table retains two associated 19th century leaves, enhancing its versatility. Its overall condition, originality, and the exceptional quality of both materials and workmanship distinguish it as one of the finest triple-pedestal dining tables to appear on the market in recent years.

A particularly striking feature is the refined craftsmanship on the underside—an area seldom visible—where every surface, including the inner rails, is meticulously veneered and finished to the highest standard. This level of detail is a hallmark of the esteemed Dublin cabinetmaking firm Mack, Williams and Gibton.

Attributes such as the reeded edge, the exceptional choice of timber, and the distinctive beehive-shaped pedestals are closely associated with this renowned firm. The design and construction bear comparison with documented examples, including a numbered table sold from a New York collection at Christie’s on 16 April 2002 (lot 261, $107,550 including premium). Other comparable pieces attributed to Mack, Williams and Gibton include examples sold at Christie’s, London, 15 April 1999 (lot 161, £65,300 including premium), and Christie’s, New York, 7 April 2009 (lot 47, $74,500 including premium). A related four-pedestal version sold at Christie’s, New York, 16 January 2019 (lot 128, $156,250).

Founded around 1812, the partnership of John Mack, Robert Gibton, and later Zachariah Williams, flourished until Mack’s death in 1829. Renowned for their use of exquisite timbers and exceptional craftsmanship, the firm is often compared to Gillows of Lancaster and London. Drawing inspiration from the designs of Thomas Hope and George Smith, they were appointed “Upholsterers & Cabinet Makers to His Majesty, His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant and His Majesty’s Board of Works” in 1806—a Royal Warrant they held for many years. Their commissions included major public buildings such as the Four Courts, the War Office, Dublin Castle, and the Viceregal Lodge, as well as private estates including Ballynegall (Co. Westmeath), Oakley Park (Co. Meath), and Strokestown (Co. Roscommon).

This table stands as a testament to the firm’s legacy—elegant, expertly made, and of enduring historical significance.

Dimensions:
Length with leaves: 366 cms - 144 Inches (12 ft)
Length without Leaves: 254 cms - 100 inches- (8.3 ft)
Width: 137 cms - 54 inches
Height: 75cms - 29 1/2 inches

PRICE: £POA

Below: Table underside. Click image to view larger version.