Henri II Dining Table

This is a classic Henri II style dining table made from solid walnut. What makes it Henri II style are the columns and balusters comprising the vertical supports for the massive top and the “H” shaped stretcher which forms the base. These elements owe their stylistic origin to the Renaissance tables made in France by Italian craftsmen brought to Paris by Catherine de’Medici when she married the future King Henri II. This table embodies the traditional design used for French dining tables in the early 20th century before mass-production and shortcuts led to the demise of solid construction in walnut. The bun feet give it a solidity and country charm. Although at one time it had extensions or leaves, these have been lost to history. For dining chairs which would complement this table see Items 3085 and 9361 (walnut dining chairs). Gairaud, Yves, Le Guidargus du Meuble Régional (Les Editions de l’Amateur, Paris, 1990); Rousseau, Francis, Le Grand Livre des Meubles (Copyright Studio, Paris, 1999) This table is ideal for a kitchen or a small dining room where casual dining in a French country atmosphere is evoked. For more information, visit M. Markley Antiques on the Web -- the premier resource in the U.S. for French Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival furniture, including Henri II and Louis XIII styles.