M. FORD CREECH ANTIQUES & FINE ARTS

 

"THE TOPS..."

   

Usually when we describe a chest or table, we describe – and photograph – the  front, or eye-level view –

bow front, 2-over three, drop-leaf, etc.  From a distance, that is what we see.  However, when we move

 into closer proximity, what we actually see are not the fronts - but the tops

   

Table and chest tops with great inlay or figuration to the wood can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. 

They also can add greatly to the value of the piece – particularly if they retain a good aged patina – which

Israel Sack described as “...built from all the effects, natural and man-made, that create a true antique”.

 

Here are few great tops from our stock,

as well as the bottoms that go with them : 

 


 

 

Highly Figured George II/III Mahogany 2-Drawer Side Table,

England, c1760

with pierced foliate fretwork corner brackets

 The dramatic figuration of these crossbanded veneers is almost pictorial, transforming

an otherwise simple side table into art, with wonderful movement, proportion and color.

 


 

 

Charles II - William & Mary Walnut Candlestand

England, c1670-1690

with dished octagonal top and base, twist standard and compressed bun feet; wonderful "patina"

This top held candles longer than we have had light bulbs.  The burns and stains to the wood

depict its use and those who used it over 300 years ago.  They should not be removed or disguised.

 


 

 

Good William & Mary Walnut Veneered Chest

England, c1695

This chest features a beautifully figured "quarter-veneered" (4 matched and mirroring veneers), crossbanded and

 featherbanded top over two short and three long featherbanded drawers; the sides are also quarter-veneered,

featherbanded  and crossbanded - unusual in a provincial chest.  Its beauty speaks for itself.

 


 

 

Fine George III Diminutive Bow-Fronted Chest With Brushing Slide,

England, c1790-1800

   Of desirable small size with excellent timber and color, the secondary woods also of mahogany.

Rather than veneers, as 2 of the above examples, this is a solid piece of dense well figured mahogany,

probably Cuban or Jamaican. This chest is also pure and unrefinished.

 


 

 

Northern Italian Marquetry Writing Table

Italy, late 18th century

The sliding top above an antique leather-covered slide, retracting to reveal a well, fitted with 5 small drawers

This fruitwood surface is intricately inlaid with contrasting woods depicting the legend Angelique & the Hippogriffe -

a symbol of the impossibility of love - among other neoclassical and mythological symbols to the top and frieze.

It tells a story as well as becoming fine art from woods. 

 


 

 

George II Provincial Mahogany Lowboy,

England, c1750

with unusually carved cabochon knees to the cabriole legs.

The swirls and movement to the wood, as well as the variation of color, are of

a more subtle nature on this small lowboy.  Yet they still provide a

sweep that takes the eye on a journey, as a painter would direct you through a painting.

 


 

 

Irish George II Mahogany Tea Table

Ireland, c1750

With dished tray top of well figured mahogany having re-entrant corners, above a plain frieze with two

end drawers  and convex ruffled apron, the cabriole legs ending in pad feet; rich old finish.
Included here not only because of the beautiful figuration, but because the history from years of

tea service still visible on the top.  A tea table without stains has been stripped down. 

 


 

ALSO SEE :

A TALE OF TWO TOPS

(a short discussion of patina on tops)

 

Please Inquire

 

 

We welcome and encourage all inquiries.  We will make every attempt to answer any questions you might have.

 

 For information, call (901) 761-1163 or (901) 827-4668 or email mfcreech@bellsouth.net 

 

American Express, Mastercard, Visa and Discover accepted

 

 

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