Large Dining Table
95 in. x 54 in.
quarter-sawn White Oak
This table will seat eight people quite comfortably. The type
of construction might be described as traditional. The table-top
is supported with two trestle type frames joined by three longitudinal
members. The frames each have curved stanchions, which are mortised
directly into a top and bottom rail. The two frames are joined
together with raked rails, which define the length of the support
structure, and provide a great amount of structural integrity.
These two side rails are mortised through the end-frames, and the
end grain of every tenon is exposed. The tenons are wedged with
yew, to provide an accent of contrasting colour and also to impart
extra strength to the joint.
The bottom rails of the two end-frames are joined with a massive
bottom stretcher rail. This too is mortised right through the end-frames.
The end-grain of the stretcher is exposed on the outside surfaces
of the piece, where the wedged tenons boldly indicate the construction
method.
The one-piece table-top is fabricated from carefully matched oak
boards joined in the traditional (slape joint) manner. The top
is shaped to compliment lines of the support structure. The edges
of the top are carefully finished with subtle chamfers and rounded
edges. The top is fastened to the sub-structure with large brass
expansion plates. These 'buttons' allow for the woodwork to shift,
as temperature and humidity changes demand.
The table is made to be strong and sturdy. The construction is
very traditional and particularly suits the material, quarter-sawn
oak. The lines of the table reflect the organic nature of wood
in a very elegant and undated fashion. The edges of the supporting
structure, are finished with broad stopped-chamfers, which enhance
the tactile feel of this piece of woodwork. The bottom stretcher
rail is chamfered almost to its limits, and it is further decorated
with the incised quotation, 'Thou preparest a table before me'.
The design and construction is very typical of the work of Peter
Leonard Bailey. The table is available with chairs made in the
same careful discipline.
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