Reproduction of John Shaw

Card Table for Colvin Run

Mill

This reproduction card table was built for display at the Colvin Run Mill Historic Site in Great Falls, Virginia for use in the Miller’s house exhibit. The Federal style card table was based on a table attributed to John Shaw, a cabinetmaker in Annapolis, Maryland who built furniture from the early 1770’s until the early 1800’s.  Shaw and his partner Chisholm operated a prosperous shop near the docks.  This card table is made from a matched set of mahogany with crotch mahogany veneer on three apron faces. The overall dimensions of this piece are approximately 30” high x 36” wide x 18” deep and the top expands to 36” x 36” when unfolded. The card table features a rear fly leg which swings open to support the top.  The interior of the top is covered with green baize to provide a playing surface. The legs in this table feature a unique five sided taper design which was a common feature in Shaw’s work.

Features

• Constructed from mahogany as the primary wood with secondary woods of white oak, pine and walnut to follow the original  John Shaw card table. • Attributed to the shop of John Shaw and Archibald Chisholm of Annapolis Maryland c. 1790. • Dimensions: approximately 36" wide x 18" deep x 30" high • Crotch mahogany veneer on three primary apron faces. • Five sided tapered legs - a very unique detail. • Reproduction side-mount card table hinges. • Interior playing surface is lined with green baize. • Single rear swing leg that supports the top in the open position.  • Table is stained and finished with a hand rubbed clear varnish.

Rear fly leg extended and detail showing wooden hinge joint.

Table shown in the open position with rear fly leg extended.