Work Table
ca. 1840 (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
Work tables were essential pieces of domestic furniture for women. This example, although relatively simple in design, was practical and functional. The flat top could be used as a working surface and embroidery materials and tools stored in the bag below the drawer, which could be pulled out for easier access, while the padded stretcher offered a comfortable foot rest. The pillar-like legs, with their elongated leaf decoration and the lion paw feet, are examples of the influence of the Greek Revival style which had been fashionable for furniture since 1800.
Object details
| Categories | |
| Object type | |
| Materials and techniques | Mahogany, turned and carved; modern velvet; modern wool |
| Brief description | Work table of mahogany with carved decoration, British, ca. 1840 |
| Physical description | The work table consists of a rectangular top with two tapering turned pillar end supports on square section bases with lion paw feet and a padded stretcher covered in modern velvet. On one side of the top there is a drawer, with two turned knobs and a keyhole, and from the bottom of this drawer is suspended a bag on a frame, covered in modern red wool. The drawer can be pulled open to give access to the interior of the bag. |
| Dimensions |
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| Credit line | Bequeathed by Brigadier W.E. Clark |
| Summary | Work tables were essential pieces of domestic furniture for women. This example, although relatively simple in design, was practical and functional. The flat top could be used as a working surface and embroidery materials and tools stored in the bag below the drawer, which could be pulled out for easier access, while the padded stretcher offered a comfortable foot rest. The pillar-like legs, with their elongated leaf decoration and the lion paw feet, are examples of the influence of the Greek Revival style which had been fashionable for furniture since 1800. |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | CIRC.626-1969 |
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| Record created | August 23, 2006 |
| Record URL |
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