Gate Leg Table 1710 - 1730

This gate leg table was made by an anonymous maker, most likely in England, using dense hardwoods like oak or walnut. The table’s design is all about flexibility. Its hinged leaves can be raised or lowered, allowing it to expand or contract as needed. Notice the turned legs, a detail achieved using a lathe – a machine that rotates wood at high speed, enabling a craftsman to shape it with precision. The shaping of these legs, and other elements of the structure, involved many hours of skilled labor. The maker of this table would have been thoroughly versed in joinery, ensuring that the table would be sturdy and durable. Such tables speak to a time when furniture was a significant investment, made to last for generations. When appreciating objects like this, it’s important to look beyond mere utility, and consider the rich cultural history embedded in its making.