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.