Worktable
William Hook
(American, 1777–1867)
about 1808
Object PlaceSalem, Massachusetts, United States
Medium/TechniqueMahogany, satinwood, pine
Dimensions73.0 x 51.4 x 39.5 cm (28 3/4 x 20 1/4 x 15 9/16 in.)
Credit LineGift of Mrs. John B. M. Mactaggart
Accession number39.555
On View
On viewClassificationsFurniture
Collections
A lady's worktable held fancy needlework and other sewing materials in its hanging bag, as well as writing papers, quills, and other tools in the drawer or interior compartments. Such tables were small and lightweight so that they could be moved easily-placed next to a sofa or chair or stored against the wall. Hook made this table as a wedding present for his sister Hannah, who married Peter Folsom in 1809.
ProvenanceMade in 1808-09 by William Hook as a wedding present to his sister Hannah, who married Peter Folsom on August 17, 1809; this work table was part of a group of objects in the collection made for this occasion (see also 38.67, 39.556, 39.557, and 39.379); it descended in the Folsom family and was lent by Hook's grandniece, Mrs. John B. M. Mactaggart (born Elsie B. Folsom), March 17, 1942; converted to a gift in 1955.
about 1790–1810
about 1790-1810