• Height:
  28 1/2 Inches
• Diameter:
  66 Inches
• Period:
  19th Century
• Origin:
  England/Ireland

Extremely rare and important, this English mahogany circular extension dining table was designed and patented by Robert Jupe and retailed by G. Morant, Interior Decorator and Upholsterer to King William IV and later to Queen Victoria. One of only a handful known, this table illustrates perfectly the Regency era's quest to combine technical innovation with superb and beautiful craftsmanship. The table is complete with its original leaves.In March 1835, Robert Jupe patented his design for "an improved expanding table so constructed that the sections composing its surface may be caused to diverge from a common center and that the spaces caused thereby may be filled up by inserting leaves or filling pieces." One of the most novel dining tables that evolved during the early part of the 19th century,this ingenious table extends from a smaller diameter of 66 inches to a much larger 92-inch diameter. When the top is turned, a capstan mechanism allows the sections to diverge from the common center. Once fully opened, each of the eight leaves can be inserted, creating a beautiful expanded dining table for seating eight.Circa 183028 1/2" high x 66" diameterFully extended: 92" diameterEarly Jupe pieces are among the rarest of all furniture. While many of the existing tables have fallen into disrepair, this example is in absolute mint condition. The mechanism operates so smoothly it can be turned easily with one hand, and the finished mahogany retains a deep, rich luster. Similar examples are pictured in Nineteenth Century English Furniture by J. Aslin and Regency Furniture by F. Collard.Robert Jupe, at the time an upholsterer, conceived the idea for this "revolving" table early in the 1830s. He was not alone in his fascination with combining the technical merits of engineering and mechanics with the more artful pursuit of cabinet making. The first half of the 19th century saw a prolific increase in the popularity of applying new ideas to furniture, principles which allowed furniture to serve many purposes. The resulting "patent" furniture was practical and refined, although none so much as this remarkable and quite stunning table, which is equally suited for intimate gatherings or large, formal dinners. Though Jupe's incredible table was well received, his company Johnstone, Jupe & Co., produced them for only 5 years (1830-1840).