American Chippendale Ball & Claw Sideboard Table, 18th Century

AMERICAN CHIPPENDALE BALL AND CLAW CONSOLE TABLE
Circa 1770-90
Item # 130309GZP24

A table that is intended for display against the wall with it's exposed apron facing out, the front two legs are highlighted with beautiful raised shells while the rear legs are unadorned.  The boards have a beautiful flowing grain, the top boards more dramatic as the apron shows pleasing horizontal rays.  The sides of the apron are recessed behind the corners, the inner edges of the leg posts being thumb molded and flanking the inset apron and knee returns; all legs are locked in place with pinned tenon-mortise joinery.  The robust scalloped apron exudes grace and liveliness with a repeating lobe flanked by a half step.  All four legs terminate in a tall ball grasped by long and thin talons.  It is a flexible table, the back leg swinging out and firmly propping the dropped leaf to make the console into a full game table or serving table.  Being incredibly attractive and rather unusual, it is a very fine acquisition for anyone passionate about classical Colonial forms. 

Measurements:  28" high x 16 1/2" deep x 31 5/8" wide; 29 3/4" deep when opened

Condition Report:
Top is replaced, having some fading/burns/scratches/patching.  Refinished, early and dry finish on the legs and frame. A round plug on front left leg, probably hiding a screw that reinforced the leg at some point.