Leeds Antiques has dated this William IV Card Table to the 19th Century.
The fold-over top is veneered in highly decorative burr yew, bordered by a crossbanded edge, and opens to reveal what appears to be the original baize-lined playing surface. The top retains its original surface character, displaying the glowing amber tones for which early 19th-century yew furniture is especially prized.
The frieze is embellished with carved roundels and a running gadrooned moulding, the whole supported on a boldly carved tapering pedestal with lotus-carved collar. The concave, gadrooned quadriform platform base is particularly impressive, terminating in four powerfully modelled lion paw feet — a feature associated with the finest late Regency and early William IV cabinetmaking. The table stands on its original concealed castors, all present and functioning smoothly.
Origin and Attribution
The quality of timber selection, sculptural carving, and overall design strongly suggest a Scottish origin, very possibly Edinburgh, where burr yew furniture of this calibre was produced during the 1820s–30s. The combination of concave-sided platform base, deeply carved lion paw feet, lotus-carved collar, and richly figured burr yew aligns closely with documented Edinburgh work of the period and shows clear affinity with the output of leading Scottish cabinetmakers such as William Trotter and the Morison workshop. While no firm workshop attribution can be made, the table compares favourably in quality, form, and ornament to known Scottish examples.
A superb, untouched example of early 19th-century furniture with exceptional presence and character.
A full set of additional images is available on request.
Dimensions (approximate):
Height: 74 cm (29 in)
Width (closed): 91.25 cm (36 in)
Depth (closed): 45.5 cm (18 in)
Depth (open): 91 cm (36 in)
Condition:
This table is in very good condition for its age and remains structurally sound and sturdy.
The burr yew top shows historic marks, a few circular water marks, and surface wear, consistent with nearly two centuries of use and now forming part of its attractive, well-aged patina.
A slight age-related warp to the top is present, typical of burr-veneered fold-over card tables of this period and not detrimental to use or display.
The baize appears to be original, showing age-appropriate discolouration and wear.
A tiny historic veneer fill to the crossbanded border near one hinge, entirely typical of age-related movement and scarcely noticeable.
One lion paw foot has a small chip to the third toe, and there are minor age-related splits to the veneered platform base, some with small historic fills; all are stable and unobtrusive.
Original brass hinges, original screws, and original concealed castors all present and functioning correctly.
Lightly cleaned and waxed, now beautifully presented and ready for use.
As with all antique furniture, signs of age, use, and wear are present and contribute to the character, authenticity, and charm of the piece.
Leeds Antiques has dated this William IV Card Table to the 19th Century.
Fine english antique furniture
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Leeds Antiques Profile Page
William IV Burr Yew Wood Card Table, C.1830
