Fine Pair of American Classical Mahogany Card Tables, Massachusetts ca. 1820

FINE PAIR OF AMERICAN CLASSICAL FLAMED MAHOGANY CARD TABLES
Probably Boston, Massachusetts
Circa 1820

Open: 27 3/4" H x 37 1/4" D x 38 1/4" W
Closed: 28 7/8" H x 19 1/16" D x 37 1/8" W

Flamed mahogany veneers, mahogany, pine, brass castors, baize playing surfaces, marbled paper interior

A fine pair of American Classical flamed mahogany card tables, each with a rectangular hinged top above a deep veneered apron and central circular pedestal support. The tables are raised on bold scrolling bases terminating in original brass castors.

Each top rotates to reveal a storage compartment for gaming materials, this covered with what appears to be the original marbled paper lining. The top then opens on its original hinges to give access to the playing surface lined with old baize. The figured mahogany veneers are strongly matched across the tops, aprons, pedestals, and bases - carefully selected timbers that flow beautifully from one table into the next. Note the organization of the book-matched veneers in the legs to accentuate the curvature and rotation of the feet by choosing veneers with a chaotic grain pattern moving in the same spiral as the foot. There was careful attention shown to balance of proportions where the visual weight of the legs is balanced perfectly against the slight enlargement of the upper table portion. A very handsomely designed and executed pair.

Condition: Minor checking and blemishes to the old polished shellac finish, including minor discolorations. They would benefit from being re-polished at some point. Spot of veneer missing at the back of one table. Some veneer patching. Baize is old, originality unknown, and faded with wear. Sturdy, strong and perfectly functional. Tables present beautifully and are ready to place.

ref. 606BEN04Q