EDWARD PRIESTLEY (BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 1778-1837), ATTRIBUTED, CLASSICAL MAHOGANY SIDEBOARD, of large single-piece two-pedestal form, the rectangular top with a central set-back, applied gallery/backsplash, pull-out mixing boards on either end, and stepped silverware boxes applied to the top over a series of five drawers above two hinged cabinet doors with veneered panels flanking an open center bay possibly intended to hold a cellarette/liquor case, the front of the piece mounted with six so-called mummy-head caryatid pilasters, the whole raised on a platform base with small bun feet resting on later casters. Several drawers are fitted with fixed and removable trays. Pine and poplar secondary woods. Retains the original silverplated Sheffield knobs by A. Atkinson, the original locks (the locks on the silverware boxes on the top are located on the side), and an old surface with warm color nicely displaying the grain of the veneer. Circa 1815. 48" HOA, 85" WOA, 26 1/4" DOA.
Literature: See Kirtley - "A New Suspect: Baltimore Cabinetmaker Edward Priestley", American Furniture (2000) for an in-depth overview of the Priestly's work.
Catalogue Note: Born in Annapolis, Maryland, Edward Priestley (1778-1837) moved with his widowed mother to Baltimore in 1790. While no records exist regarding his apprenticeship, it is likely that he trained under a master in the city during the last decade of the 18th century. By 1801, he had entered into a partnership with fellow cabinetmaker, Samuel Minskey (1778-1819), and the two established a shop near the wharves in Baltimore, where they advertised a full array of furniture and furnishings for prospective clients in the city as well as those further south through export. In 1807, Priestley and Minskey dissolved their partnership, and set up their own individual enterprises. Priestley maintained the present location on Baltimore Street and prospered there for nearly three decades as one of the rapidly growing city's most sought-after cabinetmakers. His list of clients during this period include everyone from the region's wealthy elite to President James Madison and First Lady Dolly Madison. 
A number of Priestley's most iconic pieces bear distinctive carved "Mummy" figures as a decorative motif, undoubtedly resulting from keen interest in Egyptian architecture and decorative arts during the latter phase of the Neoclassical period.

Very good overall condition with scattered minor wear; expected minor wear and restoration to various veneered and inlaid elements; casters are later additions; mixing slides are appropriate replacements; other minor repairs possible.

Deaccessioned by the Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA to benefit collections care, preservation, and future acquisitions.
Purchased by the Valentine Museum for display in the Wickham House in 1992.
Descended in the Hewson family of Philadelphia, PA.