17th Century, Charles I, Carved Oak Table, Exeter, England, Circa 1630

A rare English 17th-century oak refectory table. Charles II-period, ca 1675. The three-plank cleated detachable top is of superb color, figuring and patination. Raised on six baluster supports united by stretchers. The frieze is guilloche-carved on all four sides: this demonstrates that this table can be free-standing. Many of these were only carved on three sides. This versatile refectory table can be used as a hall table, dining table, serving table, or a wonderful kitchen table. A number of early oak pieces which we have sold have harmonized very well with modern interiors. A similar-sized refectory table (in generally poor condition) sold for £17,000.00 plus buyer's premium, in Duke's auctioneers ATHELHAMPTON HOUSE sale, Puddletown, Dorset, UK, 9th Oct, 2019. Nb. The turning of the supports on this antique table indicates a development away from an earlier, heavy, carved bulbous leg, to a simpler baluster leg of the late-seventeenth century. However the guilloche-carved frieze is a hint of an earlier period. Some historic restoration commensurate with 350 years of use. Overall in superb condition. Dimensions: 8’5’' L. (256.5 cm) 2’8’' W. (81 cm) 2'7'’ H. (79 cm). Literature: R. W. Symonds 'The Present State of Old English Furniture...

Early 19th century English Oak refectory table with moulded edge and earlier 18th century elements to the table base. Heavy triple plank top over decorative hand-carved stiff leaf frieze and four turned balusters legs united by a box stretcher. The table was notably restored around 1920 by Foster, Cooper and Foster Ltd. of 63-64, Long Row Nottingham for Mrs. Alice Bartram of Bramcote Hall. Mrs. Alice Bartram was married to the son of Rev. Canon Bartram of Canterbury who was also the rural dean of Dover, Kent. Foster, Cooper and Foster. Ltd. original attribution labels to both table top and base. Provenance Winchester Cathedral...