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sellingantiques.co.uk
ID #SA934572
FOR SALE
£875
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Early Victorian Mahogany Occasional - Reading Table (Metamorphic)
Culvertons
for sale €1,024     $1,111
£875
Culvertons

Culvertons

Sellingantiques Verified Since Dec 2013
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Id #SA934572
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Early Victorian Mahogany Occasional - Reading Table (Metamorphic)

19th century
For Sale by Culvertons
Description

Thanks to an ingenious mechanism this elegant mahogany table can be used in several different ways - in its lowest horizontal position (72 cm high) it functions beautifully as an occasional or lamp table, but then by raising the top and making use of its original (detachable) book rest, it transforms into a reading or display table, capable of supporting a fairly substantial book (see image). It certainly has many uses both domestically or within a retail/restaurant setting, because by simply releasing a catch in the column, this table can be raised higher, perfect for displaying documents. This table was made during the first years of Queen Victoria's reign (1837 - 1901), a period known for its manufacture of elegant high-quality furniture that showed a good degree of restraint when it came to its design, ideal for today's interiors. Unusually, we can date this attractive piece quite accurately as its original castors bear a finely cast lozenge patent mark (see image) for the 13th of October 1842 (the first year that this system was put in practice). Now, after being professionally restored this attractive table is ready to be used and enjoyed. (The quoted height below is for the table at its lowest point - maximum to follow )

Physical Dimensions
Height
72cm (28.35")
Width
55.5cm (21.85")
Depth
39.5cm (15.55")
Declaration

Culvertons has dated this Victorian Metamorphic Reading Table to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA934572
Dealers Notes

Whenever possible Culvertons undertake the carriage of items within London and the home counties. Professional, competitive and trusted couriers and shipping companies are engaged for deliveries for the remainder of our customers. Smaller items, when instructed, will be carefully parcelled and securely sent by the carrier.

We strive to accurately describe and illustrate our stock on the 'Selling Antiques' website. However, we understand that it is not always possible to judge from photographs how an item will look in the home or garden. For this reason, if notified within seven days from the date of delivery we offer a full refund (less any agreed carriage costs) once the item has been returned in the same condition as it left our premises.

Description
Thanks to an ingenious mechanism this elegant mahogany table can be used in several different ways - in its lowest horizontal position (72 cm high) it functions beautifully as an occasional or lamp table, but then by raising the top and making use of its original (detachable) book rest, it transforms into a reading or display table, capable of supporting a fairly substantial book (see image).
“
It certainly has many uses both domestically or within a retail/restaurant setting, because by simply releasing a catch in the column, this table can be raised higher, perfect for displaying documents.
Culvertons

This table was made during the first years of Queen Victoria's reign (1837 - 1901), a period known for its manufacture of elegant high-quality furniture that showed a good degree of restraint when it came to its design, ideal for today's interiors. Unusually, we can date this attractive piece quite accurately as its original castors bear a finely cast lozenge patent mark (see image) for the 13th of October 1842 (the first year that this system was put in practice). Now, after being professionally restored this attractive table is ready to be used and enjoyed. (The quoted height below is for the table at its lowest point - maximum to follow )

Height
72cm (28.35")
Width
55.5cm (21.85")
Depth
39.5cm (15.55")
Date of Manufacture

Culvertons has dated this Victorian Metamorphic Reading Table to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA934572
Culvertons
Culvertons
Sellingantiques verified Since Dec 2013
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Culvertons Profile Page

Relevant Links
PDF SHARE
SAVE
An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base.
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Archive I An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base.

Early Victorian mahogany occasional - reading table (metamorphic)

Archive II An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View II
Archive III An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View III
Archive IV An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View IV
Archive V An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View V
Archive VI An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View VI
Archive VII An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View VII
Archive VIII An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View VIII
Archive IX An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View IX
Archive X An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View X
Archive XI An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View XI
Archive XII An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View XII
Archive XIII An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View XIII
Archive XIV An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base. View XIV
Enlarged Archival View
Culvertons

Culvertons
Telephone 0777 542 6867 or 01306 770212
Location
42 A West Street
Dorking
Surrey
RH4 1BU
United Kingdom
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/culvertons
Verified Since Dec 2013
Items For Sale 48
Items Sold 314
Culvertons
Culvertons
Verified Since Dec 2013
View Dealer Info
Location: 42 A West Street, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1BU, United Kingdom
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/culvertons
Verified
Dec 2013
For Sale
48
Sold
314
An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base.
Early Victorian mahogany occasional - reading table (metamorphic)
Ref: SA934572
An early Victorian dark mahogany metamorphic reading table featuring an adjustable tilted top supporting an open book, supported by an octagonal pedestal and a quadripartite base.
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Archival Detail

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FAQs

A metamorphic reading table is a multifunctional piece of furniture featuring a mechanical ratchet or hinged mechanism that allows the flat tabletop to tilt into an angled lectern or book rest. Originating in the late 18th century and popular throughout the Victorian era, these tables served as versatile occasional surfaces and study aids in private libraries.

Victorian reading stands were predominantly constructed from dense hardwoods such as mahogany, rosewood, and oak. Mechanical components, including ratchet support bars, brass hinges, and metal height-adjusting screws, were integrated into the wooden frame to facilitate movement and adjustment.

Authentic 19th-century examples display hand-cut joinery, original brass hardware with natural patination, and wear consistent with mechanical adjustment over time. Look for heavy solid timber construction, hand-carved pedestal details, and period-correct iron or brass ratchets beneath the tilting top.

Position the stand in a reading nook, library, or hallway to display art books, historic maps, or guest registers. The warm mahogany tones pair effectively with neutral walls, contemporary leather seating, or structured architectural elements to create a balanced focal point.

Preserve the timber finish by dusting regularly with a soft dry cloth and applying high-grade beeswax once or twice a year in the direction of the grain. Avoid placing the table near direct heat sources or in fluctuating humidity to prevent timber movement, warping, or cracking.
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