Folding Card Tables
TABLES folding card, 1720-1750
On the previous page we show how, from early sacred examples, tables could be adapted for profane purposes. The move from turned or turned and faceted leg to a cabriole form followed quite simply the general furniture pattern (see Chairs). The fold-over as opposed to hanging flap type was ideal for the card-cum-side table. While the gateleg method of support was still used a new method was also evolved. ‘Concertina action’ as it has come to be known, enabled the two back legs to be folded out and stand square,
giving a more stable and attractive appearance to the table which in this position could be used as a centre table and looked the same from every angle. A photograph of this mechanism half extended is seen in 708.
The pad foot coexisted with the cabriole leg but seems in general to have been used for the more humble pieces. However, as can be seen, some very attractive early pad foot examples exist.
Another variation which one meets is the three-top table in which there is merely an additional flap to provide an alternative top. This is sometimes inset with contrasting woods to provide a games top, e.g. a chess board. The value of these pieces is greater than their two-top equivalent by about fifteen to twenty per cent. They are found mainly from the second quarter of the eighteenth century.
The fold-over action requires hinges to be placed on the side. This is a perfectly sound method, but abuse over the years can lead to ugly or ineffective repairs having been made which will, of course, reduce value.
A mahogany example with a baize top surface highlighting the corner candlestands and the inset scoops. This table also has cabriole legs ending in ball-and-claw feet, but the knee is carved with leaf and scroll forms. The flap is supported by a leg which pivots on a gate. c. 1735
Shows a fine quality walnut example, the cabriole legs having shell decoration carved on the knee and being hipped’ at the top to flow into the veneered frieze surface in
the same way as the chairs of this quality of that period. The legs end in ball-and-claw feet. The only features of quality lacking in this table are, on the top playing surface, the candlestands and scoops for gaming counters which can be seen in the next example. c.1720
Not all the early desirable pieces have cabriole legs. This delightful little pad foot table is veneered in red walnut with a fifth leg to give stability when the table is open. The decoration includes the typical early protrusions on the lower rail and the spur at the top of the legs.
A more simple gateleg type with pad feet and fold-over top. It still, however, retains the spurs at the top of the legs. Although they are straight, the legs are canted out very slightly and give an impression of foursquareness lacking in later pieces. c. 1740
In this example the decoration is confined to ball-and claw feet and shaped apron to the frieze which is constructed as a drawer. It has, however, the desirable feature of concertina action. Fitted with candlestands and inset scoops.
A simpler but good quality table with legs ending in pad feet. The cabriole form is used only on the front legs, while the back ones are straight. In this table the top, when folded open, is supported by one of the back legs swinging open on a gate, as is also the case in 701.
A George II folding top table in heavy mahogany. The straight legs ending in pad feet are a modification of earlier cabriole legs in that the earlier exuberance has been curbed and the leg is now much more restrained. These tables were probably multipurpose, being used for both games and for refreshments such as tea.
Tags: cabriole, cabriole legs, card, card tables, Chairs, drawer, eighteenth century, furniture, George i, mahogany, second quarter, walnut, Wood