Boothby, John

at ‘The Golden Head’, Norfolk Street, Strand, London; upholsterer, sworn appraiser and undertaker (c.1750)

A mid-eighteenth century trade card framed by elaborately scrolled and foliated bedstead with drapes and tester, states that he ‘Makes and Sells all Sorts of Upholstery Goods, Cabinets, Chairs, and Looking Glasses, &c.’ [Leverhulme Collection, Metropolitan Museum, New York; Westminster Reference Library, Gardener Collection, 63–31B].

A mahogany drop-leaf dining table exhibited by John McMaster, c. 1970, revealed in a secret compartment a letter from the maker, John Boothby, to its original owner, Mrs Norton of Leicestershire, dated Christmas Eve, 1743. It reads, ‘Madam. — I hope these 2 tables will please. I do Ashure you thay are very good tables, the longer thay are worn the better thay will look, with a little Rubbing. I Coud have sent tables of the same size for 6s. A table Cheaper, but as to promise I have them Good, the Scarborough Rock is a Name I never Heard’ [9th Spring Antiques Fair, Chelsea Old Town Hall].

Source: DEFM