Antique Tilt-top tables
Today´s topic are the antique tilt-top tables. Some table tops can be tilted so that the table can be placed against a wall when not in use in order to take up less space. Some of the uses can be for playing games, dining, or just as occasional tables.
A table that increased its use in the early 19th century.
The top of the antique table rests on a block which is supported by a pedestal. If the top has always rested on the block there will the signs of this, often quite subtle, on the underside in between the bearers. The pedestal is usually tenoned onto the block for maximum strength. Owing to the inevitable shrinkage of the block, these tenons often stand slightly proud of the block and this will cause corresponding marks on the underside of the top.
To establish whether the top has always been associated with its bearers, examine the underside carefully for marks of other bearers or plugged holes which would indicate that the top has been on another table and has perhaps been cut down. Next, examine the base to see whether it belongs with the block. There should be no suspicious things underneat the block indicating that an alteration may have taking place - for example, where the top may have been cut down from a larger antique table to fit the base.