Doe and Hope

Description

The five foot wide heavyset library or centre table, of ecclesiastical origin, having a solid four plank top upon a substantial base comprising of central baluster turned pillar and twin arched flying buttress supports, central rectangular stretcher, with each end having Gothic trefoil decoration, the whole on the original concealed castors, crafted in the mid nineteenth century and later sold by Percy Whale of Leamington Spa in the 1960s.

The condition is mainly good, with a natural and honest patina, deep colour and no sign of restoration. There is a crack running through each of the ends, both running through the gothic carved arches, which is down to a change in temperature, though in fairness the overall aesthetic, is not overtly harmed. The table has some slight movement in the top and the stretcher but it is minimal. She is sturdy and weighty and the castors run freely. We have given her a good professional wax.

This piece shows some influence after a design by Pugin who designed similar tables to this for the houses of Parliament. Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin (1 March 1812 – 14 September 1852) was an English architect, designer, and theorist of design, now best remembered as the leading proponent in the Gothic revival style, particularly churches and the Palace of Westminster. He owned a large collection of original medieval carvings which were a source of inspiration for his work. This tables arched buttress type central supports are very characteristic of his work.

The table was retailed by Percy F.Whale Ltd of Leamington Spa, as we can see an ivorine trade label present to the underside. This company started trading in 1919 and in the 1960s were fitting out large country houses with fine antique furniture. This table was part of one of those refits. They are no longer trading.

Once the property of a religious order, this weighty table has a dramatic quality but retains a nice balance, with just enough Gothic styling whilst avoiding the sometimes all too elaborate over carving, meaning it can fit into any interior, its versatility proving desirable.