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What is a gateleg table?

1 Answer

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
1800s Gateleg Table
Located in Memphis, TN
1800s gateleg table. Streamlined legs, dark stained top, single drawer with no hardware, some age
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Swedish Gustavian Tables

Materials

Wood

Large Oak Gateleg Table
Located in Cheshire, GB
Large oak gateleg dining table, having a circular drop-leaf top raised up on turned supports and
Category

Early 20th Century British Drop-leaf and Pembroke Tables

Materials

Oak

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

Small Oak Gateleg Table
Located in Cheshire, GB
Solid oak gateleg table, having an oval drop-leaf top raised up on turned supports united by
Category

Early 20th Century British Drop-leaf and Pembroke 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

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

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