Magnificent and Important Early Single Plank Top Refectory Table

With a Handsome Six Legged Joined
Frame Base Retaining the Original
Stretchers
Richly Patinated Oak with Original Surface and Excellent Nutty Colour

English c. 1620

32.5” high x 134.25” wide x 31.5” deep

Provenance: Private Collection, Wiltshire.

Ref: 31/6

This is a significant early refectory table of impressive proportions and of fine joined construction, raised on six turned legs with all round stretchers. It is most unusual to find original dining tables dating from the beginning of the seventeenth century and particularly with such a magnificent and massive solid single plank top. Remarkably few single plank tops were made as they had to be created from enormous ancient oak trees, which then took considerable time to season, transport and cut with a pit saw. Of those that were made very few are known to have survived outside of some of our documented ancestral homes which have managed to survive four centuries of fire, floods, war and family disputes. This museum quality example is in exceptional original condition and benefits from a fine rich surface patination and burnished nutty colour. It is of the highest quality and is a remarkable survival. Great sculptural early tables of this type have a scale and texture that is understood to compliment both traditional and contemporary art and interior spaces, whilst they also make exceptional and charismatic side tables beneath significant artworks and as unique display surfaces.