Mid Century Campaign Table

A rosewood and brass portable Side Table.

The design of this portable table is clearly inspired by 19th century campaign furniture. To the centre of the legs is a well-engineered brass disc with four brass sockets to either side. The legs and top supports are fitted to these sockets which are held by a small bolt to bars extending from each side of the disc. The sockets are angled on two sides so that the legs will fold parallel to each other or sit in a splayed position for use.

The top is made up of a frame with the four sides riveted to each other so that it can fold. Each corner has a hole to fix the frame on to brass pins to the tops of the legs. Two sides of the frame have raised sides to contain the top. The original top is missing and we can guess that it may been a series of slatted bars joined by material to the underside, much like a roll up chess board. This would give a flat surface and reduce in size for packing. We have replaced the top with a piece of toughened, smoked glass. This makes a good tabletop which also allows you to see the wonderful brass fittings. The legs stand wider than the top so the table has good stability.

We are not sure where this table was made but it may be Italy, Scandinavia or America. The quality of the work and materials used suggests that it may have been made by a recognised designer. It is much later than our usual stock but it is an exceptional piece and is illustrative of the enduring influence and appeal of campaign furniture. Mid 20th Century.