Rare 18thc Irish American black walnut tea table with bird inlay

Rare 18thc Irish American black walnut tea table with bird inlay
Code: LVS1448

£12,500.00
Approx $16846.36, €14551.8
*Insured UK mainland delivery included in list price*

A rare and sophisticated mid 18th century (circa 1750) Irish American black walnut tea table of superb original patina with unusual inlaid bird decoration.

This table consists of a solid black walnut figured top of serpentine form to the front with shaped corners and cleats to either end.

The top opens to reveal an unusual inlaid design of two birds, possibly quails, inlaid in walnut - this being a very unusual design, the table most probably a commission piece for an important family.

This leads down to a concealed oak lined drawer within the frieze, this drawer having a shaped and carved apron of French influence, to each side of the drawer the corners are slightly chamfered with shaped side rails.

The table is supported on four cabriole legs with C scroll decoration to the top of the legs leading down to claw and ball feet.

This construction of the top is rare for a piece of this period and confirms the exceptional cabinet work of the maker as the cleated construction was designed to stop the top from casting or twisting.

This table has various influences of cabinet work from Ireland, France and America and was possibly made by a 'Journeyman' who travelled through various countries in Europe before travelling to America and used the knowledge he had gained to produce fine furniture. There were thousands of such craftsmen that travelled to areas such as Pennsylvania and Philadelphia particularly in the early-mid 18th century from Ireland, Scotland England, France and Germany etc.

This table is in excellent original condition for age, has a superb patina, is of stable construction and can go straight into a home or collection being a very versatile item.

Size:

Height: 29'' / 73.5cm

Width: 33'' / 84cm

Depth: 16.25'' / 41.25cm (closed)
32.5'' / 82.5cm (open)