Philadelphia, circa 1755-1775.

The rectangular top with outset rounded corners, opening to reveal a felt-lined playing surface with carved counter holders and corner candlestick holders, above a conforming skirt centering a thumb-molded drawer with brass bail handle, all raised on on cabriole legs with shell carved knees, the two front leg's knees flanked by foliate returns outlined with punchwork decoration, the four legs each ending in ball-and-claw feet.



Provenance: Sold at Christies New York, Auction of Dr. William S. Serri Collection, January 23, 1993. Purchased by C. L. Prickett Antiques for the present owner.

Literature: Illustrated in "The Magazine Antiques", March 1957, p. 255 in an article by Helen Comstock, "The Collection of Dr. William S. Serri".

Dimensions: Width 29 1/8 in., depth 15 1/2 in., height 29 1/2 in.

The surface has been cleaned and varnished. Replaced: felt, brass pull (which is of the period) and hinges. Customary repairs consistent with age of piece. Special note from a statement of authentication of this lot produced by C. L. Prickett Antiques in 1993: "Prior to its purchase we, C. L. Prickett Antiques, removed the top of this table to document its originality. Upon its removal we found three holes drilled on an angle through the frame that were not reflected in the top. After careful study it became apparent these were pilot holes [nb: for screws to hold the top secure for carving of the pockets] The frame, however, was never notched to accommodate the screw heads, therefore, it was concluded the cabinetmaker opted to affix the top with glue blocks, the shadows of which are reflected on the top and on the frame. All other visible signs of originality ,when top is in place, are textbook."