A REGENCY POLLARD OAK, EBONY AND EBONISED BREAKFRONT SIDE CABINET

This impressive bookcase is almost identical to a design found in ‘Tracings by Thomas Wilkinson, from Designs of the late Mr George Bullock 1820’, with minor differences to the base, now held in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (1974M3.87). It is likely Thomas Wilkinson either worked for Bullock, or used his original designs to take advantage of Bullock’s wide appeal and imitability. Cabinets such as this, designed by Bullock, often included a raised central plinth, possibly for the display of sculpture or other objects; a side cabinet with a similar raised plinth is now in the collection of the V&A (see W.32:1 to 33-1979).

Sir James Stirling (1924-1992) was a giant of 20th century British architecture; he was that rare creature - a passionate advocate of the modern with a deep appreciation of the past and with a true connoisseur's understanding of the historical styles from which he drew inspiration, much like Philip Hewat-Jaboor. Stirling surrounded himself with furniture, pictures and objects that reflected his friendships, his work and the spirit of the age, with a particular focus on the Regency period. Highlights from his collection of Regency furniture were sold in these rooms., 29 April 2010, lots 111-120.