M. Markley Antiques
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Antique Tables - Item 3094
Henri II Dining Table

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Item 3095	Henri II Dining Table
Dimensions	Length 45, Width 41, Height 28, (in inches)
	From bottom of tabletop to floor   24½
Wood	Solid walnut
Country	France
Date	Circa 1930
Price	$1.195
Description	This is a classic Henri II style dining table made from solid walnut.  What makes it Henri II style are the columns and balusters comprising the vertical supports for the massive top and the "H" shaped stretcher which forms the base.  These elements owe their stylistic origin to the Renaissance tables made in France by Italian craftsmen brought to Paris by Catherine de'Medici when she married the future King Henri II.  This table embodies the traditional design used for French dining tables in the early 20th century before mass-production and shortcuts led to the demise of solid construction in walnut.  The bun feet give it a solidity and country charm.  Although at one time it had extensions or leaves, these have been lost to history.  For dining chairs which would complement this table see Items 3085 and 9361 (walnut dining chairs).
Reference	Gairaud, Yves, Le Guidargus du Meuble Régional (Les Editions de l'Amateur, Paris, 1990); Rousseau, Francis, Le Grand Livre des Meubles (Copyright Studio, Paris, 1999)
Uses	This table is ideal for a kitchen or a small dining room where casual dining in a French country atmosphere is evoked.