a Table with Shelf

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Full Description

This excellent example of a table with a shelf has a number of subtle differences and refinements that make the design unusual and very successful. Tables with shelves usually follow a fairly standard form, with a few variations. One such variation is in the placement of the shelf. In a discussion on shelf placement on these tables, Wang Shixiang points out that since there is no real practical advantage to lowering the shelf, tables with higher shelves look more balanced and elegant.4 The placement of the shelf on this piece is higher than normal, which â coupled with the slightly increased height of the table â creates a greater sense of lightness and balance. Another unusual feature of this piece is the use of slightly oval rather than round legs. This adds boldness to the design, accentuating the splay of the legs and providing a stronger vertical element. Against this balanced and well-proportioned frame the craftsman has chosen to use fluidly drawn cloud-head spandrels rather than plain straight ones. The lack of any beadings helps to integrate the spandrels into the whole perfectly, whilst their elegant curves add movement and elegance to the design.