- 19
A large James I oak side table, early 17th century
Estimate
7,000 - 9,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Oak
- 80.5cm. high, 166cm. wide, 56cm. deep; 2ft. 7¾in., 5ft. 5¼in., 1ft. 10in.
the altered top above a carved fluted frieze with shaped spandrels, on turned baluster supports joined by peripheral stretchers
Condition
A rare survivor of the period, good colour and patina. The top appears to have been altered at an early stage; it may have originally been cleated, and possibly reduced in size, and now is secured with bolts and metal batons to the underside, but it does appear to be original. Evidence of old worm, which may have been cause to reduce the top. Old marks, chips and scratches throughout. Atmospheric.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
These tables are sometimes referred to as 'Altar Tables' most probably because of their size. This term is discussed by Victor Chinnery, Oak Furniture - The British Tradition, Woodbridge, 1979, p. 224. In 1564 Queen Elizabeth issued a decree ordering that parishes had to provide '...a decent table, standing on a frame for the Communion Table..', which led to the removal of stone altars. Parishes purchased appropriate tables from local joiners which would have been as equally at home in a domestic setting. Therefore, unless there is documentary evidence, there is little to say that these tables, and the offered lot were sepcifically for use in a Church setting.
For another good example see The Clive Sherwood Collection, 22 May 2002, lot 296.