Gateleg table

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Example of a gateleg table. Gateleg-table.jpg
Example of a gateleg table.

A gateleg table is a type of furniture first introduced in England in the 16th century. The table top has a fixed section and one or two hinged leaves, which, when not in use, fold down below the fixed section to hang vertically.

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Description

Gateleg tables are a subset of the type known as a dropleaf. The hinged section, or flap, was supported on pivoted legs joined at the top and bottom by stretchers constituting a gate. Large flaps had two supports, which had the advantage of providing freer leg space in the centre. [1] The earliest gateleg tables of the 16th and 17th century were typically made of oak.

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References

  1. "Gateleg table" Encyclopædia Britannica