Fine Art, Antiques and Estate Jewelry
Lot 96:
Description
A very good American Chippendale Walnut Ball and Claw Tea Table, probably Chester County, Pennsylvania ca. 1770. A well-preserved walnut tilt-top tea table with a circular top carved from solid planks and finished with an integral raised-bead edge. The underside retains its original battens and screws, allowing the top to tilt vertically for storage or display. A birdcage mechanism beneath permits the top to rotate, facilitating use during tea service.
The small turned supports of the birdcage echo the profile of the central pedestal, which features a swollen baluster form with incised lines and ring-turned detail. Three cabriole legs are dovetailed into the pedestal and reinforced with an iron bracket on the underside. Terminating in finely executed ball-and-claw feet with well-articulated claws and musculature.
A strong and detailed example of regional craftsmanship, exhibiting both functional design and refined carving.
26 5/8 H x 31 3/4 diameter
Condition: Old refinish with an even and well-preserved color overall. Top shows areas of discoloration and a faint water ring; minor wear and small losses along the edge. Apparently original collar, cleats, iron clasp and birdcage mechanism; wedge is missing. Minor toe losses to feet.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ADDED 7/25/25: There is no noticeable warping – but if you view the table top from on your knees to look across the top, it waves up and down from shrinking/expanding over time. The top measures 31 7/8” along the grain and 31 5/16” across the grain.
The top is three boards: one at the very edge, roughly 2” wide. The next 14 3/4”. Then 14 1/2”.
We don’t observe any repairs: the one toe is 50% lost (see condition existing notes), the wedge is absent and it has an old refinish – the hardware appears to be original and the battens undisturbed.
Overall very good condition, ready to place.
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Dimensions: 26.63 x 31.75 x 31.75 in
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