Photograph by Shannon Ruff, Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II digital slr-2008. Cleaned by Ed Pollard-2014.

Center table

Manufacturer J. & J.W. Meeks (American, 1797 - 1868)

Previous Attribution John Henry Belter (American, 1804-1863)

CultureAmerican

Dateca. 1850

MediumLaminated rosewood

Dimensions31 × 45 × 29 in. (78.7 × 114.3 × 73.7 cm)

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number71.2293

On View

On view

DescriptionCenter table with a white marble top. Shaped top with four cabriole legs carved with flowers and leaves. The legs are joined by an openwork carved stretcher with a central decoration of a tazza full of fruit. Below this is a carved pendant. The side rails of the table are carved openwork of grapes, leaves and vines. Central bunches of roses and leaves are on each of the four side rails.

Label TextJ. & J. W. Meeks New York City Center Table, ca. 1850 Laminated rosewood Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. 71.2293 Werner Hunzinger’s still life attacks the senses with a lush ensemble of fruit and wine. His arrangement rests on a marble-topped table, much like the ornate piece on display in this gallery. Similar displays of grapes and fruit decorate this carved table, extending an atmosphere of abundance. Equally intricate designs give the silver water pitcher its richly textured surface. Together, these objects demonstrate Americans’ increasing desire to decorate their homes with sensuous luxuries that taught appreciation for beauty and fine craftsmanship.