We were absolutely delighted to find this beautiful and rare 1870's two tier antique wooden ebonised gypsy table, and even happier when we found it was signed to the underside of the table.
The table is intricately decorated throughout with flowers to the upper level, and with a Celtic knot to the lower level.
As per traditional dukkering, or fortune telling, tables this one stands on three legs fashioned in a faux bamboo style.
Marked "W Gerrard" with a number 7 through the signature. The number 7 also appears on the lower level - see photos for details. Some signs of previous guilding over the ebonising.
William Gerrard was born in Lyndhurst in the 1840's. His grandfather, father and uncles were involved in the furniture trade and he joined them in 1867.
Working as a cabinet maker and furniture dealer, his hallmark items were gypsy tables with two tiers and faux bamboo legs, the early examples of which were ebonised. He died in 1914, bringing to an end the tradition of furniture making and supply of gypsy tables through his family.
At maximum points measures approximately :-
Height - 20 inches
Top surface diameter - 15 inches
Lower surface diameter - 11 1/2 cm
The table shows signs of wear, as would be expected from a table of this age. Signs of previous woodworm, which has been treated. Please see photos for details or contact us for further information