Drop-leaf table

1800-1850

or modern

Measurements

29-3/8 in x 42 in x 18-1/4 in (open, 44-5/8 in)

Materials

White pine (top, frame rails, stretchers), hard pine (legs)

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3925

Condition Notes

See "Comment"

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

The rectangular drop-leaf table stands on four square tapered legs, which are joined by stretchers on the long sides only.  Swiveling bars of wood set into the tops of the long side rails hold up the hinged leaves.  The table has evidence of light brown paint in inappropriate places, notably underneath the leaves.

Although the overall form of the drop-leaf table is appropriate, features of this one call into question when it was made.  The absence of stretchers connecting the legs on the short sides or ends is not a period practice.  The three brass hinges on each long side of the fixed center board exhibit no movement, wear, or other evidence of aging despite the softness of pine boards.  The screws holding them in place appear to be modern.  The top is attached with large wire nails at each leg that have been countersunk to hide their nail-heads.   There is little or no evidence of wear from the swivels that support the leaves, nor is there any of the expected wear around the hinges and rule joints between the fixed center board and hinged leaves.