Card table c. 1790 - 1800

This card table was crafted anonymously, employing mahogany and other woods. Mahogany was a prized material, sourced from the tropics and traded across the British Empire. The table's design features a hinged top that unfolds to reveal a playing surface, showcasing both functionality and elegance. The wood itself has a tight grain, with a reddish-brown hue, and is polished to a sheen. Consider the labor involved in its creation: felling the trees, transporting the lumber, and the skilled hands that shaped and assembled the table. The anonymous maker demonstrates the mastery of woodworking techniques, from joinery to veneering. The social significance of this table lies in its association with leisure, entertainment, and social gatherings of the upper class. By examining the materials, the processes, and social context, we gain a deeper appreciation for this object, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.