A Classical Carved Mahogany and Satinwood Card Table attributed to Thomas Astens, New York, c.1820

This card table is defined by the wonderfully carved pineapple, which constitutes its central column, and the key to the Astens attribution. There is a related, labeled Astens center table at the Metropolitan Museum in New York (see scan). Further, we have, in our collection, a related Astens center table with similar column (item sw00357) .

The top of the card table is crossbanded, and the apron provides a lively visual relief with the introduction of Satinwood panels, testifying to the quality of this piece. Astens was no ordinary craftsman and, our center table similarly shows virtuosity with its multi-sectioned top (see photo).

The feet in both our center table and this card table are sculpted and carved in a related manner, as is the central pineapple column. In suite, they make a wonderful statement of New York classical furniture of the 1820-30 period.

(Click here to see this table en suite with our Astens center table.)