Table

Object Type
This oak table would have been described as a 'joined table' as opposed to a trestle table. The legs were fixed to the top, rather than dismantled and removed when not in use. Such a table would usually have been placed on a dais at the end of the hall, for the master of the house and his more important guests. An alternative location was in the chamber, a highly important room where the master or mistress not only slept but also received guests for dinner.

Time
This table dates from about 1540 or earlier. The brackets and the octagonal balusters with their sharp edges are in the Gothic style, with no classical motifs.

Materials & Making
The table is made of oak and joined with pegs. The slats of wood are set at right angles to each other, which is a sign of early joinery; later examples usually had mitred (diagonally cut) joints.