Quarter-Sawn Oak Mission Library Table — Double Shelf, Slat Sides

A substantial Arts & Crafts library table in solid quarter-sawn oak, built in the Mission idiom that dominated American reform furniture from roughly 1900–1920. The two-board top sits above a structured apron fitted with grouped vertical slats on all four sides — a hallmark detail that balances visual weight with open geometry. A mid-tier shelf and a full lower stretcher shelf provide both display space and structural integrity, tied together with period-appropriate iron fasteners at the key joints. The grain figure on the legs and apron rails shows the medullary ray fleck characteristic of true quarter-sawn stock.

This open center-table format — no drawer, accessible from all four sides — was designed for the study or parlor, where books and periodicals needed to be within reach from any seat. It functions equally well today as a sofa table, console, or work surface.

CONDITION

Good. The table is structurally sound and stands firmly; all joinery and shelves are intact with age-appropriate wear throughout. The tabletop has developed a noticeable bow along its length, and the surface shows scuffing and finish wear consistent with extended use. Legs and lower structure display minor checking and small chips with exposed raw wood near joint areas.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Height × Width × Depth: 29.25" × 44" × 26.75"
• Lower side shelf height from floor: 12.5"
• Center shelf height from floor: 20"
• Material: Solid quarter-sawn oak
• Finish: Fumed/dark-stained, original
• Hardware: Iron fasteners at shelf joints
• Maker: Unmarked; Arts & Crafts period trade production, c. 1900–1920

Bob Ross (6'2") Shown for Scale