ITEM SW00380: A Chippendale style Carved Mahogany Tilt-top Table with Shell and Scrolls,
late 19th century

This table appears to be an exact replica of the table shown in American Rococo, 1750-1790, by Heckscher and Bowman, (see scan and judge for yourself).

As Heckshire points out, the elaborate carved edge of shells and scrolls is "the most elaborate of any American example" and is derived from the mid-18^th century silver salver tray design. It is rarely found on an American example and the one illustrated by Heckshire is probably of Southern origin, Williamsburg, shop of Peter Scott. The English prototype of which this table is derived is illustrated in The Collectors Guide to Furniture Design (see scan). Note the basic formula on the top, of shells and scrolls, flat ball and claw feet and interesting drop-pendant with carving, although quite different between the legs on the central column.

The exactness is of our table to the Heckshire example is uncanny, down to the three part bellflowers on the knees as described by Heckshire. This, we believe, is a fairly rare form to be copied and with the superb carving throughout, may have been made in the late 19^th century as a copy to the example we site. Except for the 19^th century catch, this table takes a goodly analysis of time to separate it from the period example, given that it has a century of age with a good grunge build-up on the legs and column.

It is reasonable to expect Heckshire’s example, if it were on the market, to be a six-digit number, and our table, which is in superb condition, is a fraction of a fraction of the price. Price notwithstanding, the period example is unobtainable, and to live with an example of the best of the best design and craftsmanship, is what we proudly offer as part of the Stanley Weiss Collection.

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Height: 28 1/2 in. - 46 1/2 in. Diameter: 33 in.