Table c. 1940

Mario De Ferrante rendered this drawing of a table, but the date remains unknown to us. It invites us to consider the ways in which seemingly simple household objects can carry significant cultural and historical weight. The table's design, with its elegant curves and sturdy construction, evokes a sense of refined craftsmanship. It's reminiscent of furniture produced in America during the 18th and 19th centuries. Such tables were more than just functional items. They were markers of social status and taste, reflecting the values of a burgeoning middle class. Furniture making during this era was shaped by specific economic and social conditions. The availability of materials, the organization of labor, and the demands of consumers all played a role in determining the form and style of furniture. Examining trade records, design manuals, and even probate inventories can provide valuable insights into the world in which this table was conceived and used. Ultimately, this object serves as a reminder that the meaning of art and design is always contingent on its social and institutional context.