A late 18th Century 'French Hepplewhite' figured mahogany Ladies Writing Table of serpentine form, having boxwood and ebony strung tulipwood crossbanded top with chequered inlaid edge. The Table with 3 lift up slides centred with marquetry inlaid drawer, supported on cabriole legs with platform.
 
In 17th and 18th century Europe France took the lead in the decorative arts, and many other European countries, including England were influenced by it.  This charming ladies writing table is very much in the French taste but gently modified.  There are no heavy ormolu mounts or Sevres porcelain plaques but delicate marquetry and gracful serpentine lines.  This piece is also interesting as it has raised silk panels to the back and sides, which could have been there to protect the lady from the heat of a coal fire.