Mason & Hamlin Cabinet Organ

Item: Antique Tilt-Top Round Dining Table

Material: Mahogany
Dimensions: ~36" diameter × ~26" high
Weight: ~40 lbs
Condition: Fair (surface wear, finish loss, repairs/modifications to base)
Provenance: Received from older family member; specific history unknown.

Description and Authentication

This appears to be a late 19th to early 20th century tilt-top pedestal dining table, likely American or British in origin. Key identifying features include:

• Pedestal and legs: Carved cabriole legs with leaf-and-scroll detailing, terminating in stylized pad or scroll feet. The carving style is consistent with Victorian-era reproduction of earlier Rococo Revival motifs.
• Tilt mechanism: Brass locking hardware with a central pivot point, allowing the top to flip vertically for storage or space saving. The mechanism and screws appear hand-cut or early machine-made, suggesting manufacture before the widespread adoption of fully standardized machine screws (~1900–1910).
• Construction: Solid mahogany top made from multiple planks, not veneer. Underside shows original framing with evidence of period joinery, though some later reinforcement blocks and replacement screws are visible.
• Tabletop: Divided into 3 large panels and 1 smaller one, possibly from shrinkage or replacement over time. Original surface shows oxidation, ring marks, and patina consistent with age.

Condition

• Top surface: Moderate wear, finish degradation, darkened rings from water or heat exposure.
• Base: Structurally sound but shows old repairs; extra wood blocking and mixed fasteners indicate stabilization over time.
• Tilt hardware: Appears functional but may need cleaning and lubrication to operate smoothly.
• Feet: Carving detail remains visible but edges are worn. Small chips and finish loss present.
• No maker’s marks were found, only faint chalk marks (likely from the original workshop or movers).

Estimated Age

Circa 1880–1910, Victorian to early Edwardian era. Hardware and hand-tool evidence support this date range.

Value Estimate

Values for antique tilt-top mahogany tables vary greatly depending on:

• Maker attribution
• Condition
• Provenance
• Regional market demand

Current fair market value (as-is, fair condition):

• Auction/wholesale: $150–$250
• Private sale/retail (with some restoration): $300–$500
• Fully restored: $600–$900 in the right market.

Because of its repairs and wear, your table’s value is on the lower side unless restored.

Recommendations

1. Professional appraisal – If you suspect this is by a known maker (e.g., Gillows, Thomas Seymour, or another fine furniture workshop), have it evaluated by a certified antiques appraiser or auction house.
2. Restoration considerations – Light restoration (cleaning, finish reviving, tightening joints) could increase appeal without diminishing authenticity. Avoid heavy refinishing unless the surface is severely damaged.
3. Documentation – Keep detailed photos of construction, hardware, and underside. This helps with dating and future sale.
4. Selling venues –
   • Local antique shops or dealers specializing in Victorian furniture.
   • Online platforms like Chairish, 1stDibs (restored), or Facebook Marketplace (as-is).