Lot 105
  • 105

ENGLAND, 17TH CENTURY | Gateleg Table

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 GBP
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Description

  • Gateleg Table
  • yew
  • extended: 72 by 121 by 143cm., 28½ by 47½ by 56¼ins.
  • Made circa 1690.
the oval top above a single frieze drawer

Condition

This is a wonderful colour and has a lovely patination. The top with old marks and scratches from age and use and some ring marks. The underside of the top with later strengthening batons. The table is of a slightly uneven stance. Evidence of old worm to one stretcher. The nature of this timber means there is much movement, cracks, splits and separations. It is a superb and rare example.
"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

The fact that this rare table is constructed from yew is most unusual. This native timber is very durable with a fine colour and patination and is highly prized amongst early cabinet makers. Yew comes from the soft conifer group of trees and obtaining wide clean planks from the trunk is difficult as this part of the tree is formed by the binding together of shoots. This fibrous nature makes it suitable for shaping and bending and the wood was the ideal choice for the medieval archer’s long bow. It becomes more prevalent after the Reformation as a veneer or in constructional framing as seen in many Windsor chair frames. Sourcing adequate timber would have been difficult and working it hard, factors which would have ensured that the table would have been a highly prized piece of furniture. For comparison see a yew table dating from the same period which is currently on loan to Kensington Palace, London, from the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London (accession number W.49-1940).