Hand-carved in Spain during the 1800’s, this walnut table with wrought iron stretchers features a uniquely shaped 1 ¾ inch thick top. Two planks comprise the top, which was carved with undulating sides; such a unique contour adds to the appeal of the table. The top rests on a pair of open lyre legs with volute feet adorned with foliate curls. Subtle fretwork of C-curves and counter curves embellish the wide stance of the legs.
Beneath the top is a pair of iron bars that cross in the center. Each bar has a circular protuberance in front of a volute terminal with a tightly wound center. The bars are pegged through the lyre legs, with a lozenge backplate festooned with an open hoop.
Spanish tables are unique in that most were designed to quickly disassemble for transportation purposes. Families were often uprooted by the religious conflicts that dominated Spain during the Middle Ages, which necessitated tables that could be moved quickly. For hundreds of years, the overall design of these Spanish tables never changed, with open lyre legs and iron stretchers. Today, they remain sought after because of their inherently attractive design and versatility.
CONDITION: Good antique condition with wear commensurate to age and use, including minor age separations and acceptable losses to top. The top has slight undulations along the sides, with a slight bend to one end, giving it added character. Traces of old wood worm. Please see photos for details.