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What is a gateleg table?

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What is a gateleg table?

First introduced in 16th century-England, a gateleg table is a popular kind of table that allowed for intimate dining. The tabletop of the gateleg table, which was initially round or oval versus the long tables and formal seating arrangements that preceded it, had a section that was fixed in place, while one or two sections of the surface were equipped with hinges. By design, a gateleg table could be extended so that more space could be allocated for work or for dining if needed. These hinged sections could be folded back into place on top of the fixed section or could easily be dropped down to hang vertically on their hinges when they weren’t in use. This function, which allowed the table’s drop leaves that weren’t in use to be pushed up against a wall, saved space in small homes because the table could be tucked away. Pivoted legs under the table — which formed a gate as they were joined at their tops and bottoms by crosspieces — supported the hinged sections. 

1stDibs ExpertApril 29, 2020
Shop for Gateleg Tables on 1stDibs
Small Oval Gateleg Table
Located in Greenwich, CT
An English oak gateleg table of small scale with traditional flaps supported on two gates that fold
Category

Antique Late 18th Century English Card Tables and Tea Tables

Materials

Oak

Plank End Gateleg Table
Located in Greenwich, CT
Good late 17th century English or Welsh oak gateleg table, the oval top over balustrade silhouette
Category

Antique Late 17th Century Welsh Baroque Drop-leaf and Pembroke Tables

Materials

Oak

Large Gateleg Table In Oak
Located in Brussels, Brussels
lovely oak table called Gateleg Very beautiful table which has a very beautiful turned base
Category

20th Century British Aesthetic Movement Dining Room Tables

Materials

Oak

English 18th Century Gateleg Table
Located in Delft, NL
English 18th century gateleg table. An Oak drop-leaf gateleg table with folding sides, resting
Category

Antique 18th Century English Drop-leaf and Pembroke Tables

Materials

Oak

18th Century English Gateleg Table
Located in Wilson, NC
18th century English Gateleg table is made of oak and has unusual splayed feet. It has a single
Category

Antique Early 18th Century English Drop-leaf and Pembroke Tables

Materials

Brass

17th Century Danish Baroque Gateleg Table
Located in Chicago, IL
An exceptional 17th century Danish Baroque oak oval gateleg table with four skilfully turned legs
Category

Antique 17th Century Danish Baroque Dining Room Tables

Materials

Oak

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