NEW ENGLAND, 1740-1770

This classic New England form is distinguished by its diminutive proportions. Of relatively simple construction, drop-leaf tables were popular in the eighteenth-century and survive in numerous examples. Rare are those of extreme proportions; the small size of this table distinguishes it from others and contributes to its overall success. It is embellished by double-cyma aprons that ease the transition between the horizontal elements of the top and the vertical lines of the legs. For related tables of similar size and synthesis of form, see Dean A. Fales, Jr., The Furniture of Historic Deerfield (New York, 1976), p. 120, fig. 247; Israel Sack, American Antiques from Israel Sack Collection (New York), vol. 8, p. 2239 and vol. 1, p. 268; a table sold at Christie's New York, June 23, 1993, lot 179; and Oswaldo Rodriguez Roque, American Furniture at Chipstone (Madison, 1984), pp. 286-287, cat. no. 133.

As listed in Mrs. Blair's 1943 inventory, this table furnished "Guest Room III" in her New York City apartment.