FINE WESTERN RESERVE / OHIO RIVER VALLEY FOLK ART INLAID WALNUT TWO-DRAWER STAND TABLE, the rectangular top with strong figure and line-inlaid edge over two full drawers, each embellished with two elongated diamonds oriented horizontally within a line-inlaid border around edge, and each side decorated with impressive flowering-urn-inlaid decoration, all raised on ring-turned legs. Inlaid decorations of figured maple, mahogany, and other hardwoods. Poplar and white pine secondary woods. Old surface with beautiful, warm color. Circa 1830-1860. 27 3/4" H, 21" x 19 1/2" top.
Provenance: Property of a Virginia private collector.
Catalogue Note: A stunning example of the rural cabinetmaker's art, this stand table was undoubtedly a prized possession for the original owner and may have been created for a special individual or noteworthy occasion. Constructed of nicely figured walnut and embellished with extensive inlaid decoration, this piece blurs the traditional lines between furniture and folk art. Indeed, the stylistic impact of the inlaid baskets adorning the table's two sides rival the effect produced by any folk art theorem painting of the same era. Even more, the stand's idiosyncratic decorations further indicate the special quality of the piece, much as a work of folk art stands as unique in its own right. With inlaid patterns and construction techniques and materials that echo multiple regional cabinetmaking schools, determining a region of origin for the piece is complicated. Whatever its specific place of origin, however, this stand table is clearly both a powerful piece of American furniture and an outstanding work of American folk art.
Condition
Repair to left rear corner of top. Pulls possibly replaced, otherwise excellent condition.