catalog text
GOTHIC REVIVAL CARVED WALNUT LIBRARY TABLE WITH HERALDIC MOTIF
Europe, circa 1900
Item # 309AKJ22Q
A rich and beautifully made library table, the entire form is designed around the older Gothic table top. This is a richly patinated surface crafted of solid walnut that has been stained to a nearly mahogany hue with incredibly dark and nearly black oxidization in the crevices - the result is brilliant and highlights the carvings. The corners of the table feature a heraldic motif of an eagle wearing a shield with four panels, each with a bas-relief carved Lion or Castle. Intricately executed symetrical panels frame the table top, these with wonderful flowing florals, organic displays of writhing shapes and on the front and back side a stylized "F.V."
The base is almost as interesting as the table top. A product of the Arts & Crafts movement, it features wonderful chip-carved, turned and naturalistically carved legs locked in place with a custom twisted-wrought-iron stretcher that rises in a cyma-curve to lock into the underside of the table top. The result is a very striking form, one that brings much needed surface history and detail to the interior.
Measurements: 35" H x 36 1/2" D x 59 1/2" W
Condition Report:
Minor wear, chipping and discolorations as expected from wear and age; the top is older than the base/legs and those were likely custom made for the table top at the turn of the century; legs are ever-so-slightly out of square when viewing them exactly straight on; very strong and solid construction - there is some slight wiggle due to the way the iron stretchers are designed with some give; a very good presentation.