Mahogany Basin Stand

The mahogany basin stand was used as a wash stand where the top held a bowl, probably Chinese export, three rings for soap dishes and the bottom for a bottle that held water.  Three separated concentric circles of wood are held together by fluted pillars and turned balusters.  The lignun vitae bosses are fixed under the bottom shelf.  The top part is supported by a fluted column of ample size as is the tripod base ending in a five-toed paw foot.  The antique finish is hand applied and rubbed to achieve a rich patina.
This basin stand is probably carved by John Townsend, as stated by Joseph Downs, American Furniture, Queen Anne and Chippendale Periods, New York, 1952, no. 218.  Sotheby’s – The Garbisch Collection, 1980, Volume IV, no 1160.  It sold for $17,000. 

Image #9 shows the basin stand in its original location at the Garbisch House in Cambridge, MD.

32″ H x 10 7/8″ W  Newport – c. 1960 – 1765

Read an article in the Kent News

 An audio discussion with Peter Kenny