Slab or Side Table c. 1735

This side table was designed by William Kent, probably sometime in the first half of the 18th century, made of carved and painted wood, with a marble top. The design is exuberant, even a little absurd. We see sea monsters at the corners, garlands of leaves and shells festooning the frieze. All of this ornament was achieved by highly skilled woodcarvers. The tabletop is heavy and has a tactile quality that appeals to our sense of touch. But it is the base of this table that's really interesting. The artist has demonstrated incredible skill in manipulating and transforming the wood. Think about the labor involved. This table is not just a functional object, but a symbol of status and wealth. These kinds of objects were a vital part of the 18th century economy. The division of labor could be extreme. The marble could be quarried and the wood could be sourced from British forests. The side table would bring together the work of many hands, including those we don't normally consider when assessing a work of art.