Mahogany hall bench with panelled seat, finishing scrolled ends with round moulded bead, decorated with intricate brass floral rosettes. Supported on four tapered, fluted legs ending in spade feet.

The work of Charles Heathcote Tatham (1772-1842) was inspired by classical Roman architecture. He was encouraged by his employer and mentor, Henry Holland (1745-1806) to study and collect antique fragments and sculpture in Italy. Tatham arrived in Rome in July 1794, and stayed there for two years, gathering material – drawing, sketching and buying a large number of antique fragments for Holland, who was architect to the Prince of Wales. Tatham then published Etchings Representing the Best Examples of Ancient Ornamental Architecture Drawn from the Originals in Rome and other parts of Italy, during the years 1794, 1795 and 1796, 1799, which was instrumental in providing British furniture makers with classical designs.

After touring classical sites, Tatham was inspired to create hall benches in the style of exedrae; carved marble seats found in public spaces such as parks and baths in Ancient Rome.

Throughout the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Tatham worked as part of a firm of furniture designers which included William Marsh (1755-1846), George Elward (1780-1803 fl. c), Tatham’s brother Thomas (d. 1818), Edward Bailey (1809–1855) and Richard Saunders (1819-1871). The name changed to reflect the roster of designers, with the iteration of Marsh & Tatham operating from 1803 to 1811, during which they provided extensive furnishings to Carlton House, the London town residence of King George IV (1762-1830).