Hand-carved in France, this impressive oak table was produced in circa 1850. The fantastic table has large turned legs with a stretcher and is topped with a 1 ½ inch thick Belgian bluestone top.

The table apron is carved on all four sides, with a recessed channel just below the stone top, followed by a slender molding towards the bottom of the apron. The corners are joined by round dowels, connecting the horizontal apron to the vertical legs.

Measuring about 7 inches in diameter at its thickest, the turned legs are quite eye-catching. The top of each leg is embellished with disc-shaped carvings, known as “spool”. The spool bottoms enlarge, subtly transitioning into thick, loose spirals that taper inwards before terminating in blocks on top of bun feet. The X-shaped stretcher is comprised of tight spirals joined by blocks with spooled protuberances.

Turned wood is produced by rotating wood on a lathe, allowing the wood to be carved. As the lathe rotates, a cutting tool (such as a chisel) is applied to the wood, allowing a menuisier to form nodules, disks, rings, etc. This style first originated in France in the early 1600s and regained popularity during the 19th century.  This table is particularly appealing with its interesting proportions and stone top.

CONDITION: Wear commensurate to age and use with age separations to table legs. Rubs and nicks to wood, with minor losses to a few sections of the bun feet. Bluestone top is probably not original. Please see photos.