46 - Queen Anne winged dining table; England, second quarter of the 18th century.

Queen Anne winged dining table; England, second quarter of the 18th century. Mahogany, cabriole “pad foot” legs. Measurements: 71 x 101 x 47 cm; 71 x 101 x 137 cm (when extended). A rectangular dining table with folding wings, characteristic of English furniture from the second quarter of the 18th century. It features a central tabletop flanked by two hinged side wings, which allow the usable surface area to be expanded and the table’s configuration to be adjusted as needed. The apron, with its curvilinear profile and conopial design, adds dynamism to the structure and softens the overall geometry. It rests on four cabriole legs, with sinuous lines that gradually taper toward the ends, culminating in pad feet, characterized by their widened and slightly flattened shape. The piece reflects the Queen Anne style, which developed in England in the early 18th century and continued into the early Georgian period. This style marked a significant transformation in English furniture, characterized by the gradual abandonment of rigid structures and a preference for curved lines, balanced proportions, and restrained ornamentation. The cabriole leg, inspired by continental designs, is one of its most representative elements, especially when topped with the characteristic pad foot. During this period, the widespread use of mahogany also helped revitalize English cabinetmaking, thanks to the wood’s mechanical properties, rich color, and the ability to achieve high-quality surfaces through polishing.