A fine William & Mary, red walnut, gateleg table
10807
The thick, oval, plank top is in three sections, each made from one piece of timber, and finished with a deep, solid, moulded edge. The flaps are supported by the original hinges and the top is screwed and pegged into the base. The frieze is fitted with drawers at either end, both with brass knobs. The legs and the pivoting gates are finely turned with elegant barrel and mushroom turnings, joined by moulded, square-section stretchers, standing on braganza feet. Excellent original colour and patina. Circa 1690.
This is the finest model of gateleg made from thick, single planks of red walnut faced with a deep solid moulding around the edge of the top, and standing on braganza feet which were the height of fashion.
The gateleg form was prized for its ergonomic quality functioning as a centre, dining or occasional tables when extended or standing against a wall when not in use, and the versatile design of gateleg tables is timeless and they continue to serve as centre and dining tables today
English
The sale at Blenheim Palace