Torr Antiques & Decorative Arts

Description

This is an impressive Modern chess / coffee table made by Heritage Tables approximately 20 years ago. The top is plate glass etched with a chess board which sits on a handcrafted oak base in the pattern of a castle. The design of the castle is taken from Bodiam Castle in East Sussex owned by the National Trust which is one of the most complete Medieval castles to have survived in the country.

The castle itself is a 3 dimensional jigsaw with each piece cut or turned from solid oak. No screws or glue appear to have been used in its construction as individual pieces slot into position or have pegs which neatly fit into holes. We have not taken it fully apart but would expect that there is a rigid core on which the external pieces are arranged. It is beautifully engineered and very heavy to lift even after the glass top is removed.

The underside of the plate glass top has 4 pads which sit in four narrow turrets that project above the circular corner towers. The internal area inside the walls forms a natural storage area for the chess pieces (not provided with this table).

We have been unable to find out anything about 'Heritage Tables' or 'castlejigsaw.com' and can only conclude that the company went out of business some years ago. A small number of these tables were made but how many we have no idea. The labour involved would have made these tables very expensive to make.

This table really has the 'wow' factor and would provide a wonderful talking point particularly if you are a chess player and also interested in Medieval English History. It is more than just a games table as it is the perfect height for use as a coffee table.

Dimensions:
Glass top 40 x 36 inches (102 x 92 cm)
Oak base 29 x 25 inches (74 x 64 cm)
Height 19 1/4 inches (49 cm)

Condition: The table is in very good condition. There are no chips or cracks in the base and just the odd scratch on the plate glass top. There is a small water stain on the edge of the central storage area.

Delivery: Delivery by our trusted delivery man is to anywhere on Mainland England and most of Wales is included in the price of £685. The base can be moved as a whole though it would need to be tied around the circumference with a bungee or similar to ensure no parts dislodge during transit.