Dining Table
Date1836
MediumMahogany, oak, and pine
DimensionsOverall height: 28 1/2 inches (72.4 cm);
diameter without leaves: 52 1/2 inches (133.4 cm);
diameter with small leaves: 72 1/2 inches (184.2 cm);
diameter with large leaves: 85 1/2 inches (217.2 cm)
Credit LineBequest of Mary Telfair.
Object number1875.57.a-.i
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis circular dining table with demi-lune extensions is raised on four S-scroll carved uprights, resting in turn on a shaped pedestal base raised on four volute feet terminating in casters. The rich tones of mahogany, the acanthus and shell-like carving and the bold form of the table (including extending leaves) are representative of the finest manufacturing of the period.
There are few moments in life comparable to those spent at the table with friends and family enjoying food, wine, and conversation. The Telfair family had many such evenings around this table, which Margaret Telfair, sister of Telfair Museums founder Mary Telfair, purchased for the Telfair House (now known as the Telfair Academy) from Philadelphia furniture maker Thomas Cook in 1836. The unusual round design was shockingly egalitarian for a formal dining table in 19th-century Savannah. The cast of characters present at the dinners hosted around this table were not. The Telfairs were part of the exclusive Coastal Aristocracy, a small group of families who won their wealth and status through the enslavement of other people in the South, while paying seasonal visits to drawing rooms in the north and in Europe. It was during one such visit to Philadelphia that Margaret commissioned the table before continuing her trip to New York. The table was received by Mary, who wrote: “Just as I had dispatched my last epistle my dear Margaret – the above named Franklin bowed himself into our presence with Bill of Lading . . . in one hand, and a receipt in the other – I seated his Honor, gave him this sheet of paper, and dispatch(ed) his autograph, paid him your money, talked of Armoures (sic) to him and wished him good morning . . .” Over this personal note appears the transaction,
Recd Oct 25th 1836 of Miss Telfair
One hundred Dollars in full for circular
Dining Table – Thos. Cook
$100 Jno G. Franklin
One hundred dollars was a considerable amount to spend on a dining table in 1836. The extravagant cost could perhaps be attributed to the clever design with two sets of interchangeable leaves.
