Standing proudly on turned legs which are intersected by decorative slats, this piece of furniture with its inlays of chestnut and gilt carvings does not, at first, appear to be something as commonplace as a sewing table. However, on closer inspection, the table’s deep casket implies that it is, in fact, a cabinet. Lifting the top of the table reveals a maze of compartments covered by padded blue silk panels.
The center panel lifts to open a deep recess where a lady’s sewing projects would have been kept. With cubbies for buttons, thread, needles and scissors, this table would have housed everything needed for any mending project. When not in use, a lady would need to merely close the table to hide away her work beneath its gleaming ebonized cover. As always with Victorian objects, even the most utilitarian pieces were made as attractive as possible.
The mending of garments was necessary during a time when most people only owned a few outfits. Most ladies and their maids were adept at sewing to create new clothing, drapery and other fabric items needed in the house. A table such as this one would have been an integral part of any home.
Not being very good with a needle and thread, I use this as an attractive end-table. However, every so often, I open it up just to look at the cleverly fitted compartments. Both inside and out, it is, truly, a work of art.
1 comment:
What a beautiful table. The Victorians truely had a place for everything and everything in its place.
Post a Comment