Late 17th Century English Oak Tavern Table, c.1680

A wonderfully characterful late 17th century English oak tavern table, dating to approximately c.1680–1700.

Constructed in solid oak, the table has a substantial two-board top above a simple deep frieze, supported by four boldly turned legs joined by low peripheral stretchers. The restrained construction and sturdy proportions are typical of English vernacular tavern and centre tables of the period.

The oak has developed an exceptional depth of colour and surface over more than three centuries, ranging from deep chocolate brown through to warmer russet tones where generations of wear have exposed the grain beneath. The top retains numerous old fixing marks, small irregularities and areas of wear which give the piece a particularly authentic, untouched appearance.

The low stretchers are especially characterful, showing pronounced wear and erosion accumulated through prolonged use. Pegged joints, irregular hand-worked surfaces and historic repairs throughout further contribute to the table's wonderfully primitive character.

A highly decorative piece of early English furniture that remains entirely usable today. Its relatively simple form makes it particularly easy to incorporate into contemporary interiors without losing the presence and individuality expected of a genuine period piece.

Underside of rail height is 61cm.

Good Original Condition

The piece displays extensive age-related wear, marks, knocks, scratches, surface variation and historic repairs, all consistent with a table of this age and type.

The two-board top has movement and an open central joint in places together with numerous old nail or fixing marks. There are small losses and irregularities around the edges and corners.

The frame, legs and stretchers show substantial historic wear, particularly to the low stretchers, with areas of erosion and surface loss. There are old holes and evidence of historic repairs and alterations to the frame.

The oak has a rich, uneven surface and patina which we consider an important part of the character of the piece and have intentionally left unrestored.

Structurally suitable for continued use at the time of listing.
As with all antique furniture of this age, minor historic woodworm holes may be present within the timber.

- Genuine antique English oak tavern table
- Dating to approximately c.1680–1700
- Late 17th century
- Solid oak construction
- Characterful two-board oak top
- Four substantial baluster-turned legs
- Low peripheral box stretchers
- Pegged and traditional jointed construction
- Deep naturally developed oak patina
- Particularly attractive wear to the lower stretchers
- Numerous historic marks, fixings and surface irregularities
- Strong English vernacular character
- Useful size for dining, writing or use as a centre table
- Over 300 years old

An excellent piece for introducing the warmth and texture of early English oak into a contemporary interior.

Style as a small dining or breakfast table with simple rush, spindle-back or modern upholstered chairs, or use as a substantial centre table, writing table or console.

Its dark patinated oak works particularly well against limewashed plaster, warm stone flooring and neutral textiles. Keep surrounding furnishings understated to allow the aged surface, hand-turned legs and beautifully worn stretchers to remain the focus.