A Norwegian Empire style mahogany work table by Bendix Nicolai Plesner, Cabinet Maker of Skien, N

A Norwegian Empire style mahogany work table by Bendix Nicolai Plesner, Cabinet Maker of Skien, Norway, the rectangular top with inlaid lines and hinged lid opening onto compartments and a central tray. This with the manuscript maker's label. The fluted vase pedestal on a concave quadruple base with leaf-carved scrolls and claw carved feet. Width 10 3/4ins., height 28 1/2ins. This table was purchased by a Gweek (Helston) timber trader, Francis Johns (1779-1855). He bought two from Norway for each of his daughters. Plesner was born in 1804. (See illustrations)