Pembroke Table

Probably Charles Christian or Elisha Blossom
(active New York, 1798-1826; 1789-1823)
Pembroke table, c. 1813-20
Mahogany, tulip poplar, cherry, white pine, brass

Designer Thomas Sheraton credited the popularity of this kind of “breakfast table” to Mary FitzWilliam, wife of the 9th Early of Pembroke, but their functionality can be appreciated by anyone, and at nearly any occasion. Early New York cabinetmakers preferred this “elliptical” version, a reference to the leaves’ rounded corners.

The unusual fluting seen above the legs can be found on a nearly identical table labeled by Charles Christian, strongly suggesting that this one was made by Christian or his apprentice Elisha Blossom.