A 17th century rectangular oak drop leaf table on turned leg...

Hammer

£50

A 17th century rectangular oak drop leaf table on turned legs stretcher rail, label with '165' on the underside and a small white plaque '40', width 82cm, depth 54cm, height 70cm. Condition - poor, one side lacks leaf support bars. Provenance: Constables Tower, the main entrance gate to Dover Castle, was constructed in 1220 and was traditionally for the use of the Constable of Dover Castle. From the mid-eighteenth century to 2015 it was the home of the Deputy Constable of the Castle, and their families. Serving as a private residence, office, and reception space for formal events and ceremonies, over the years visitors have included leading figures from Admirals to Bishops and even Royalty.
The building and its contents were transferred to English Heritage in 2015 and an assessment of the historical significance of the building and its contents have taken place. The furniture being offered for sale was all in use in the building, offering a tangible connection to the history of the place. However, it is not sufficiently historically important to be brought into the museum collection for Dover Castle. The proceeds from the sale of this furniture, will enable English Heritage – itself a charity – to fund the conservation and care of the objects from Constables Tower which are particularly historically significant.