A PAIR OF GEORGE IV EBONY-INLAID MAHOGANY CABINETS

Henrich Ludwig (or Henry Louis) Goertz immigrated to England from Hanover some time between 1799 and 1802. Records from the time indicate that from 1814-1819 Goertz was an upholsterer to Queen Charlotte at Frogmore House, involved in routine upholstery and repair work, as well as the creation of basic furniture for household staff. As time went on, he is recorded as Upholsterer in Ordinary to King George IV and Cabinetmaker and Upholsterer in Ordinary to William IV. By 1838 a directory lists Goertz & Son as 'Cabinet-Makers, Upholsterers & House Agents' at 36 High Street in Windsor. After the ascension of William IV in 1830, Goertz had quarterly bills for general upkeep of Windsor Castle, including refurbishment of Royal Lodges and the furnishing of household and staff apartments. Records indicate similar work at Kew Palace St James's, Virginia Water, Hind Lodge and Harrington House during the years 1832–37. It is believed that Henrich likely died around 1844 and his son Henry was hence listed as the sole proprietor of their shop on High Street in a Windsor directory. However, the firm of H. L. Goertz continued to appear in the Royal accounts until 1885.