Duncan Phyfe Chess
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Early 20th Century Sheraton Card Tables and Tea Tables
Walnut
Finding the Right card-tables-tea-tables for You
Today, the phrase “card tables” might evoke the image of common plastic tables covered in felt, but historically these tables were statement pieces that invited merriment and were made of mahogany, walnut or other fine woods. Today, antique and vintage card tables and tea tables can enliven a space and encourage spirited competition in your home.
Card tables originated in England in the late 17th century, and during this time, as well as the 18th century, game tables in general became quite popular. We refer to early versions of card tables as antique Regency card tables because the Prince of Wales ruled England during the period and his official title was Regent. Back then, these furnishings were typically small, rectangular tables outfitted with hinged tops so that they could be opened to reveal a playing surface. Ornamental flourishes of the era might have included an integration of fine velvet or needlepoint as lining for the table’s surface. For furniture makers, wide adoption of a dense woven green material called baize for table covering — similar to felt but stronger — occurred during the early 1700s.
Tea became widely affordable during the early 1800s in England, and tea time exploded in popularity and involved large tea sets — especially during the Victorian era — as well as small, well-crafted tea tables. Your beverage was paired with petite baked goods, and the tea table would be home to teacups, saucers, a milk pot and other items. While tea tables are similar in design to card tables, the focus is more on presentation. Georgian card tables and tea tables — furniture made during the reign of England’s three Georges — were especially ornate. Some featured intricately carved design elements on each side and stood on elegantly curved legs. After all, tea time became a sacred ritual that society women dressed up for. It was a time to pause, reflect and sip a comforting beverage.
When no guests were visiting to enjoy tea or play games, owners could fold down both card tables and tea tables to their smaller size and tuck them away into a corner of the room.
Antique and vintage card tables and tea tables can make a lovely addition to any living room, entertainment room or game room. Find yours on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To know if your sofa is a Duncan Phyfe, start by examining the materials. Normally, Phyfe used solid mahogany wood. If you see any evidence of veneers or engineered wood, you likely have a reproduction. Also, look closely at the studs and nail-head trim. An original will have securely fastened hardware, and the hardware should appear naturally aged. Find a range of expertly vetted Duncan Phyfe sofas on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Duncan Phyfe furniture was founded in 1837. It was one of the first American cabinet-making companies to successfully use the factory method of manufacturing. Shop a collection of Duncan Phyfe furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021Duncan Phyfe tables can be worth anywhere between $50,000 and $150,000. To tell if your table is an original Duncan Phyfe, look for carved reeds, urn posts and pedestals, and lion-paw feet among others.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021In an antique market today, an original Duncan Phyfe dining table would be worth between $50,000 to $150,000.