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1971-529, Table/Steps
Table with folding library steps
1971-529, Table/Steps

Table with folding library steps

Date1770-1790
OriginEngland, London (probably)
MediumMahogany, beech
DimensionsClosed: OH: 33 1/2"; OW: 40 1/2"; OD: 22 3/4" Open: OH: 94 1/4"; OW: 64 3/4"; OD: 22 3/4"
Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors
Object number1971-529
DescriptionTable with folding library steps. When closed this is a mahogany table with straight legs, square in cross section, chamfered on the inside corners, with original casters. The top has an ogee edge and rests on 5" wide rails with a 3/8" bottom molding. The top is hinged to the rail at one end and opens fully with the other end resting on the floor. The lower three steps of the ladder are mounted on the underside of the table top. The opened top reveals a 38" x 20 ½" x 4 ½" box formed by the rails. Inside is the assembly of the upper five steps of the ladder, the bottom step of which is hinged to the same end rail as the table top. The top of the ladder is hinged to a support that, when the steps are raised, swings down to rest in the box at the end opposite the hinges. This support is constructed of two stiles and two rails made of 1/2" x 1 ¾" lath. Resting in the box, next to the steps, are three-piece folding hand railings, hinged to the interior of the box and to each other and riveted to the top step. When the upper steps are raised, these unfold to provide railings. The steps and railings are of beech, stained and finished to match the mahogany of the table.