Settee Height Vintage Mahogany Games Table Card Table Low Occasional Table Side Table Folding Top Storage Compartment

A beautifully made mid 20th century solid mahogany games table of unusually low proportions, combining elegant traditional craftsmanship with genuine practicality. Designed for comfortable seated play from an armchair or fireside chair, this is the perfect height for evenings spent playing cards, chess, backgammon, dominoes or board games, while also making an exceptionally attractive occasional or lamp table when closed.

Unlike many examples that stand at conventional table height, this lower design is both unusual and highly desirable, giving it a relaxed and inviting feel that lends itself perfectly to modern living. Whether placed beside a sofa, in a snug, library, study or living room, it has a wonderfully understated elegance that blends effortlessly with both traditional and contemporary interiors.

The table is crafted from solid mahogany rather than veneered construction, giving it excellent weight, durability and quality throughout. The rich timber has developed a warm mellow patina over the decades, with attractive grain and a lovely depth of colour that only genuine mahogany acquires with age.

Standing on four elegant cabriole legs terminating in classic pad feet, the table has graceful proportions from every angle. The legs remain in very good condition and provide excellent stability. There is a small dent to the front left leg which would improve considerably with the careful application of matching stain, although it is relatively minor and does little to detract from the overall appearance.

One of the most ingenious features is the rotating top. The surface pivots through ninety degrees before unfolding to reveal a generously sized games surface lined in traditional green baize. The baize displays the honest signs of use that you would expect from a well loved games table and is perfectly usable as it stands. For many buyers this aged character simply adds to its charm, particularly if the table is to be enjoyed for social occasions where glasses and game pieces will be in regular use. Those seeking perfection could, of course, have the baize professionally replaced with a cloth of their choosing.

Beneath the folding top is a useful storage compartment, ideal for keeping playing cards, chess pieces, dice, score pads, dominoes, backgammon sets or other gaming accessories neatly tucked away when not in use. This concealed storage transforms the table from a simple occasional piece into an exceptionally practical item of furniture.

The underside of the folding top reveals beautifully figured veneer work to the interior edges, demonstrating the quality of the cabinet making. There are a couple of tiny losses to the veneer which are entirely commensurate with age and use and are only minor cosmetic imperfections.

The original brass hinges are of particularly high quality and operate smoothly, reflecting the standard of manufacture that went into this piece. The internal base appears to have been replaced at some point during its life. The work is functional rather than refined and has clearly been carried out as a practical repair, but it is secure, solid and perfectly fit for purpose. In many respects this sympathetic repair makes the table less precious and ideally suited to continued everyday enjoyment without constant worry about minor marks or wear. Equally, should a future owner wish to restore it to exhibition standard, the table would respond very well to sympathetic professional refinishing.

Overall this is a remarkably versatile piece of furniture. Closed, it serves as a handsome side table, lamp table or occasional table. Open, it becomes a practical games table with concealed storage and a generous playing surface. Its unusually low height, solid mahogany construction, elegant cabriole legs and clever folding design make it a piece that is both highly decorative and genuinely useful, offering timeless style and craftsmanship that will continue to be appreciated for many years to come.

Please refer to the photographs for a closer look at the details and view the overall condition. Feel free to message with any questions.
Closed:
Height 59.5 cm
Width 79 cm
Depth 39 cm
Open:
Height 58 cm
Width 76 cm
Depth 77 cm

Additional dimensions information:

Closed: Height 59.5 cm Width 79 cm Depth 39 cm Open: Height 58 cm Width 76 cm Depth 77 cm