19th Century Cast Iron & Mahogany Adjustable Reading Stand

Superb quality late 19th century adjustable rectangular reading stand with circular table. Two solid mahogany tables which can be used flat or angled on a brass column with a brass adjustable mechanism above a heavy cast iron reeded column and carved quadripartite base. Quality metal work with a patent stamp from the London cabinet maker John Carter, Portland Place, London. England circa 1880. Famous for his various inventions under the trademarked banner 'Literary Machines', John Carter was a Victorian inventory and cabinetmaker operating out of 6A Cavendish Street, Portland Place, London. John Carter was maker to The Queen Victoria, Prince of Wales and Emperors of Russia and Germany having gained a reputation for quality.