Thomas Sheraton was considered one of the top three furniture designers in the 18th and 19th century. His two-part tables, popular in the early 19th century, consisted of two gateleg demilune consoles that could be combined to create an oval or rectangular banquet dining table. Typically, these tables were made of solid cherry tops and flame mahogany aprons, then finished to satiny perfection to show off the beautiful wood grain.
Cost
Generally, the earlier a table was made, the better the quality of wood and craftsmanship. According to "A Connoisseur's Guide to Antique Furniture" author Ronald Pearsall: "The main points that determine price for a Sheraton two part antique dining table are: authenticity and originality, length, width, period of originality, quality of the wood, and color." As of publication, a two-part table can start at $3,600 and on rare occasions be as high as $100,000.
Beauty
Until the 17th century it was customary for people to eat at large oak refectory tables. It wasn't until aristocratic dining evolved during the reign of Louis XIV that smaller rooms with beautiful dining tables were considered in fashion. Sheraton two-part antique tables are made of mahogany and cherry, both sturdy woods that have great aesthetic beauty.
Style
Sheraton two-part tables were made with turned legs and simple neoclassic design. When joined, the table dropleaves lift up, lock together with a secured brass fork and are supported by swing gatelegs. The console tables when not in use are around 46 inches wide and 21 inches deep, making them ideal for entry tables. The tables' dropleaves are 20 inches deep, creating an oval or rectangular dining table that can extend 80 to 101 inches long. Most were made in the early 1800s in classic Sheraton style and make beautiful heirloom dining tables to pass down for generations.
Space Saving
Two-part tables are a thing of genius. They are both functional and decorative, especially useful for a person with little space. They are ideal as dining tables but can serve as nightstands, entry tables or end tables until needed. Some antique dealers have seen as many as seven parts assembled to accommodate banquets in grand homes.
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