Maitland has the opportunity to recover a piece of furniture that could have been central to some of the city’s most historically interesting conversations, but at a whopping $45,000.
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The dining suite belonged to Samuel Clift and took pride of place at the family’s residence Roseneath, on Day Street East Maitland, a recently restored Georgian residence.
The table and chairs were passed down from generation to generation and is believed to be the very same item for sale in an antique store in the Southern Highlands.
The Clifts were a large family of influential pastoralists in the northern districts of NSW.
He was chairman of the Hunter Valley Steam Company and was associated with steamship companies trading to Newcastle for 47 years.
He was director of the East Greta Coal Company (at Farley) and served on the Hunter River Agricultural Society for 42 years – 20 years as its president.
Maitland City Heritage Group, a Maitland City Council committee, recently found the dining suite.
Through conversations between council, group member Andrew Coates, and the antique dealer, they are almost certain of the table’s provenance.
Council might not have the money to buy it, but is seeking other avenues for its acquisition.
“The dealer considers that the suite is equal to the finest dining suites made in the Australian colonies at the time,” council heritage officer Clare James said in a report to council.
“While it is recommended that council does not purchase the item, the Maitland City Heritage Group should be invited to consider other options for its purchase on behalf of Maitland City Council.”
The suite consists of a large dining table with 12 original matching chairs.
The suite was made by Emilio Zuccani of Sydney circa 1867-1873.
Councillors will vote on the best option at the ordinary meeting tomorrow night.
