Antique Camp Table

An extending mahogany Camp Table with Butler's Tray.

The X frame legs are more elaborately turned and carved for decoration than most such tables and they are also thicker and sturdier. Loudon described such tables in his Encyclopaedia of Cottage, Farm and Villa Architecture and Furniture as 'a very useful article, called a camp table, from its going into little bulk, being light, and being used by officers in camps … the top being hinged to the two legs, and supported by a portable leg … and can be removed at pleasure'. The table is similar to a Butler's Stand except that it has a hinged mahogany top that sits underneath the tray. The table will double in length with the mahogany top flipped over and the spare leg screwed in to support it. The tray is returned to complete the extended version. Loudon goes on to state that these tables are 'found useful, as forming additions to the sideboard ; they are brought in requisition when parties are given in the open air, or when a meal is taken in any room deficient in tables'. They are certainly a practical piece of furniture and this example stands out for its unusual X frame legs. Circa 1830.

Extended size is given.