During the 1600’s, there was a strong Spanish influence on furnishings throughout Italy. Pieces such as this walnut wood table are an Italian take on the Medieval Catalan models that featured removeable iron stretchers. However, the highly worked fretted wooden stretcher and lyre legs were decisively Italian features.

17th century Italian tables typically had minimal ornamentation, relying on detailed moldings and shaped legs to augment furnishings. This table has a thick quarter round molding that is adorned with a repeating pattern of semi-circles, known as lunettes, a common element among 17th century carvings.

The open lyre legs have been meticulously hand-carved with scroll protrusions along the edges. Although the scrolls are arranged asymmetrically, the sides of each leg are mirror images, providing symmetrical orientation. The same can be said of the H-shaped stretcher and its attached connectors. These sections have been sinuously carved with more scrolled protuberances and a trefoil noix at the middle of the cross-stretcher.

Our 17th century Italian walnut table is a great looking piece of furniture that can be used in a variety of ways. At just over six and a half feet long, it would make a nice small breakfast, library, or hallway table. We have given it a fresh coat of French wax which contributes to the already attractive patina.

CONDITION: Wear commensurate to age and use, including age separations with old fills and repairs. Light scratches and stains to the top. Traces of old wood worm, causing minor losses, specifically to the feet.