Antique French Walnut Draw Leaf Dining Table

Antique French Walnut Draw Leaf Dining Table opens to almost banquet table length in an instant!  This clever design, conceived during the 19th century, but made a sensation in the 20th century, consists of two leaves that tuck under the main table top when not in use, then draw out supported by long, sturdy oak runners when needed.  They just as quickly tuck back in to reclaim floor space.  This example features luxurious French walnut that is considered the finest indigenous European hardwood extant.  The subtle scrolled contours of all four of the aprons are adorned with stylized scallop shell, floral and foliate motifs, mirrored on the shoulders of the bold carbriole legs on each corner, which are tipped with escargot feet.  The legs are also connected with double-lyre stretchers that contour towards the center for maximum footroom, and are connected at the center with an upturned rosette and supported by a turned foot.  Leaves follow the contours of the top, and nestle in beautifully when opened for the perfect entertaining surface that is almost ten feet in length!
Circa mid-1900s
Measures 30H x 70.5W x 43D; opens to 118.5W
     Knee clearance ranges from 22H to 23.5H because of the scrolled apron.