Providence area, dated 1803, traces of chalk signature or inscription on backboard, figured line inlaid top with lightwood oval cartouche with initials "J.E.W. 1803", elaborately inlaid form with figured mahogany, lightwood inlays, and rosewood banding, cherry, chestnut, and white pine secondary, inlaid bone escutcheons, six dovetailed drawers, one with false double front, central drink slide with baize lining, legs inlaid with icicles and incised lozenges in alternating shades of dark and lightwood, tapered spade feet with panels of inlaid burlwood, appears to retain original brasses, 39-1/8 x 66-1/8 x 24 in.

Note: Only one other known Rhode Island sideboard follows the exuberant script of this unknown cabinet maker. Formerly in the Kaufman Americana Collection, that sideboard descended in the Rhodes and Corbin families of Providence. The Kaufman sideboard features a related inlaid oval at the top inscribed "J.B. 1803." Both sideboards exhibit similar cases with central drawers over a sliding drink tray and tall inlaid tapered legs. The inlaid decoration of the two sideboards also follows the same pattern with icicle, dark and lightwood inlays on the sides of the front legs, a patterned top edge, cross banded drawers, intertwined ovals descending from a heart on the stiles, line inlaid columns flanking the doors, and legs outlined by stringing and descending motifs. For the Kaufman example, see Flanigan, American Furniture from the Kaufman Collection, 1986, pg 213; Eleanor Monahan, "Providence Cabinetmakers of the 18th and 19th Centuries", The Magazine Antiques, May 1965, pg. 573-579; and Israel Sack, Inc., American Antiques from the Israel Sack Collection, vol. 7, pg. 1940.

excellent condition overall, typical veneer and inlay cracks, patches, and restorations, including at rosewood banding, some surface distress and verdigris to brasses (brasses appear to be original), Keno invoice records minor conservation by Allen Anderson in October 2005 including minor repairs at escutcheons and inlaid cuff, two bottom boards replaced, other typical surface and finish flaws, small losses to central doors