A charming antique mahogany drop-leaf table dating from the late Victorian period, sometimes described as a Sutherland or Pembroke table depending on its construction. The design here, with slim turned legs and swing-out supports, places it firmly in the Victorian tradition of elegant yet practical small furniture. Compact in scale and versatile in use, it was designed to fold down neatly when not required, while extending smoothly to provide a larger surface when needed.
The table is made from well-figured mahogany with a warm, rich colour and a grain that has mellowed beautifully with age. Its simple yet effective swivel mechanism allows the two hinged leaves to be raised and held securely by the swing-out supports, a design valued for its practicality and ease of use. Fully extended, the table offers a surprisingly generous surface, suitable for occasional dining, writing, or display, while when folded it occupies little more space than a narrow console, making it ideal for smaller homes, hallways, or beside a chair as a lamp or book table.
Condition is honest and consistent with age. The base remains well preserved and sturdy, while the top bears the traces of its long history, including areas of old water staining that have been partially re-stained in the past in an attempt to blend them into the surface. These marks are still visible on close inspection, but they do not compromise the table’s usability or its antique charm. As with many pieces of this type, when fully extended there is a little natural surface movement, but the table remains stable overall and perfectly suitable for light daily use.
This is a table that embodies the Victorian emphasis on flexibility and refinement in domestic furniture. Its small footprint makes it easy to place in almost any room, whether as an occasional table in a living room, a side table beside a sofa or bed, a lampstand in a hallway, or even a small writing or sewing table. Its quality of timber, the simplicity of its construction, and its time-softened patina make it not just a practical furnishing but a piece of heritage, carrying with it over a century of history and domestic life.
Dimensions:
Height 54 cm
Width surface 19 cm, extending to 75 cm
Depth 52 cm, width at feet 30 cm
