18th Century Pie-Crust Wine Table

A superb quality  mid-18th century George III Chippendale 'Director' period pie-crust wine table. England, circa 1760.

Why We Like It

An absolutely exquisite design and craftsmanship, fabulous quality and artistic level of carving, glorious patination and hefty weight - what's not to love? Beautiful and useful, this little table is perfect at the side of a favourite armchair.

History

Tripod tables and kettle stands were primarily made for holding tea and coffee paraphernalia. Tea had been introduced into this country, from Holland, in the early 17th century and in spite of the high prices and heavy duty imposed, it gradually became a fashionable drink and tea-drinking a fashionable pastime. Towards the middle of the 18th century, there was a shift from the former fashion of drinking in tea gardens to drinking at home. Consequently, cabinet-makers turned their attention to the making of suitable ornamental tables. William Ince and John Mayhew illustrated designs for 'Tea Kettle Stands' in their The Universal System of Household Furniture, 1762, as did Thomas Chippendale in his The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker's Director, London, 3rd ed., 1762, p. LV.

Condition

Sturdy and stable, historic restorations to the top and column; the top possibly associated.

Dimensions

Height: 22 in / 56 cm
Width: 21.5 in / 55 cm
Depth: 20 in / 51 cm

Top:

Width: 16.25 in / 41.5 cm
Depth: 17.25 in / 44 cm