The side table, right, had been bought at the Shepton Mallet antiques fair by a dealer, who suspected there was something unusual about the item.

It was initially catalogued as being in the style of a leading Arts and Crafts Movement designer, but after some careful research by auctioneer John Dickins, the table was revealed to be a unique 'missing' piece created by the head of the Aesthetic Movement, Edward William Godwin.
Featured in the definitive book The Seccesionist Furniture of EW Godwin, the table last surfaced in the 1970s.

A Dickins spokesperson said: "E W Godwin was the Godfather of Aesthetic Movement design and at the forefront of complete house design, including the fixtures, fittings and furniture.

"The table was featured online and attracted serious bidding from international buyers and UK buyers alike."

The table was sold last month for £34,000 plus premium to a bidder from the Midlands, who wishes to remain anonymous.