ENGLISH PRIMITIVE SCHOOL, 18TH/19TH CENTURY | Cricket Table

Charming primitive piece. Top with undulating surface and some marks and scratches from age and use. Evidence of old worm which no longer appears active.
"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 origin of the word 'cricket' to describe these tables is interesting. There are historic references to crackets (or cracketts), a form of low stool in the 16^th century. The exact origin though could be more prosaic, in that the three legs resemble cricket stumps. The form was extremely practical and three legs perfect for the uneven floor of a tavern or the more domestic quarters of a dwelling. These sculptural forms in native timbers originate from across the British Isles.