Preliminary identification

Duncan Phyfe Style Mahogany Card Table

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a classic American revival-style card table featuring a folding top that pivots and opens to double its surface area. It stands on a turned urn-shaped pedestal supported by four splayed legs terminating in brass-capped claw feet, a design heavily inspired by the legendary 19th-century cabinetmaker Duncan Phyfe.

Story

In the 1940s, American homes embraced a grand revival of Federal-era elegance. This table was designed to sit flat against a parlor wall as a console, then pivot and flip open to host lively bridge games or tea parties.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this table was produced during the mid-century traditional revival by high-quality American manufacturers such as Imperial Furniture Co. of Grand Rapids or Mersman. These workshops specialized in bringing early 19th-century craftsmanship into the modern suburban home.

Condition & Value

The table appears to be in good vintage condition with minor scuffs on the legs and feet consistent with age. The inclusion of a custom-cut glass top has excellently preserved the wood finish on the primary surface.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.