~ Lord C Beresford’s Antique Folding Card Table ~
This is a fine antique piece of furniture with a lot of character, once owned by a senior member of the Royal Navy who fittingly, was a man famed for having a strong personality.
Fashioned from rosewood around the mid 1800’s, it is a smart wall-side console table with bun feet, that, when pulled to the centre of the room can unfold to become an impressive, square, card table that would comfortably sit four players.
When placed against the wall one can view four carved dolphins atop the base, attractive scroll-work supporting the table-top and a decorative leaf carving at the front of the piece.
The dolphins appear to be carved from a different, slightly darker, denser grained wood, we believe it to be mahogany and they float the table’s main column above the base.
When being readied for gaming, the table-top swivels on a pivot to reveal a compartment (for playing cards and gaming paraphernalia) and then, on smart brass hinges, it opens to reveal a circular playing surface of magenta baize.
Before unfolding, on the wall-side edge of the upper table-top leaf, the carved name of Lord C. Beresford is clearly legible.
Lord Charles Beresford was a politician and an admiral of the Royal Navy.
Making a reputation as a hero in battle and champion of the navy in the House of Commons, he was a well-known and popular figure who courted publicity, widely known to the British public as “Charlie B”.
He was considered by many to be a personification of John Bull.
~ Dimensions ~
The table stands at 29 inches (74 cm) tall and 35 inches (89 cm) wide.
Folded it is 17.5 inches (44.5 cm) deep, unfolded 35 inches (89cm).
It weighs 25.4 Kg.
~ Delivery ~
We have calculated postage to the UK at £250 and have listed this item as non-shippable internationally. We advise you contact us for further information regarding delivery. Collection by removal firm may be a preferable option. Also, if an international collector was very keen, we could consult regarding specialist shipping. Many thanks.
~ Condition ~
This table is in great condition particularly considering its age and the fact it has swivelling and hinged parts.
The wood of the base and feet is in spectacular condition, and the table top when folded is pretty good.
Upon opening the table, the top surface reveals some long varnish cracks but nothing especially disheartening nor beyond the realm of some very light, professional restoration.
Likewise, the baize has one or two very small stains and shows considerable wear along the fold, easily restored by a professional though this is certainly not necessary for the enjoyment of the piece should the original playing surface be preferable.
The stability of the table is good and the hinges and swivel pivot are excellent.
#5718
