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Antique French Oak Extension Table with Barley Twist Legs, Late 19th Century

About the Item

This antique oak extension table was made in France in the late 19th century and is a striking example of traditional craftsmanship with strong historical character. The table stands on beautifully shaped, spiral-turned legs—often referred to as barley twist—executed here in a more substantial and tapering form, giving them a sculptural and powerful presence. The legs are connected by an elegant cross stretcher, providing both stability and a refined architectural structure. The table features two extension leaves, which are cleverly stored beneath the main top and can be easily pulled out when needed. Each leaf measures approximately 22.05 inches (56 cm), allowing the table to extend to a total length of approximately 94.5 inches (240 cm), making it highly functional for both everyday use and larger gatherings. The main top is made of solid oak, while the extension leaves and apron are oak veneered, a traditional construction method that ensures stability while maintaining a consistent appearance. The top has a thickness of approximately 0.79 inches (2 cm). The wood displays a deep, warm dark brown tone with a soft, rich sheen that enhances the natural grain of the oak. This table can be placed within the French late 19th-century tradition, influenced by earlier styles such as Louis XIII and Henri II revival. The use of barley twist legs, cross stretchers, and robust proportions reflects a return to 17th-century design vocabulary, which became popular again during the 19th century. Furniture of this type was often made for more formal interiors and dining spaces, where both functionality and visual presence were important. The extendable construction reflects the growing need for adaptable furniture in bourgeois households of the period. The combination of solid oak construction, traditional joinery, and decorative turning places this table firmly within the historicist movement, where craftsmanship and references to earlier periods were highly valued.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 30.71 in (78 cm)Width: 51.19 in (130 cm)Depth: 37.41 in (95 cm)
  • Style:
    Louis XIII (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Oak,Carved,Lacquered,Polished,Stained,Turned
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1880
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Casteren, NL
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU970949637372