SAPFM Museum Furniture Collection

Pier Table

Joseph Meeks and Sons (American)

Pier Table, Joseph Meeks and Sons (American), c. 1829–35, mahogany; marble
Maker
Joseph Meeks and Sons (American)
Date
c. 1829–35
Medium
mahogany; marble
Dimensions
Overall: 91.5 x 105.4 x 57.1 cm (36 x 41 1/2 x 22 1/2 in.)
Form
Table
Origin
America
Culture
America, New York
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Accession
1981.65.a
Credit line
Gift of Mrs. R. Livingston Ireland
Ornamental tables such as this marble-topped example were most often used in rooms on a narrow wall between two windows or just across from them on an opposite wall. Usually a gilded mirror hung above the table to create a single pier of glass, top to bottom, which reflected light around the room. This table's bold use of carved and stenciled decoration, as well as expensive white marble, indicate that it was owned by a very wealthy family.
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