Slate-topped table
1700–20
Object PlaceBoston, Massachusetts
Medium/TechniqueMaple, pine, various woods, slate
DimensionsOverall: 71 x 101 x 63 cm (27 15/16 x 39 3/4 x 24 13/16 in.)
Credit LineGift of Mark T. Wendell
Accession number41.704
On View
On viewClassificationsFurniture
Collections
The slate top is surrounded by an octagonal frame featuring a fancy, marquetry panel made of different-colored woods. This tabletop was imported from Switzerland; its more subdued base, with turned legs and stretchers and a drawer with a scalloped skirt, was made in Boston. Slate-top tables were popular for mixing and serving drinks, as the slate could withstand the drips and spills that would damage a wooden top.
ProvenanceBelonged formerly to Daniel Staniford of Boston whose grandfather is said to have used it as his desk when teaching school.
about 1580–1600
1800–20
about 1795–10
about 1800
about 1870–80
