A William and Mary 'Wainscot' oak side table late 17th/early 18th century

with three frieze drawers, the shaped apron with acorn pendant and on four tapering columnar and baluster turned legs united by an X-shaped stretcher surmounted by a turned finial

Good. Attractive honey colour throughout with nice patina to the top and the stretchers. Some wear and ghosting on handle sites. Typical horizontal split in central ogee arch of apron. The top with some old marks and old partial separation. The turned finials are sympathetic replacements. Of accommodating size, pleasing appearance and good colour. To discuss this lot in greater detail please call Edward Rising or David Macdonald on 0207 293 5107 or 0207 293 5507.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The attractively grained oak used in the construction of this lot is of good quality and it maybe that this timber was imported from the Baltic (often referred to as Wainscot). We know that a high premium was placed on wood from this area and was preferred by furniture makers. Oak native to the British Isles whilst durable and ideal for construction or shipbuilding was often cross grained and its very toughness made it hard to work. Because Baltic oak was imported and its quality was recognised the cost per foot was three times more than English oak at the time this table was made. For a full discussion see Adam Bowett, English Furniture 1660-1714 from Charles II to Queen Anne, Woodbridge, 2002, pp. 310-311