Large Anglo Indian Octagonal Side/traveling Table

Usage

• These types of octagonal side tables can serve as distinctive accent pieces in living rooms or studies, adding a touch of historical charm.
• Traveling tables historically provided a convenient surface for tea service, suggesting they can be ideal for both formal gatherings and casual settings.
• The portable nature of such tables allows for versatile usage, accommodating various spaces, from cozy corners to outdoor patios, especially for entertaining guests.

History

• Circa 1900, these tables reflect the colonial influences of British design blended with traditional Indian craftsmanship, showcasing a rich cultural exchange.
• The design and functionality of traveling tea tables are rooted in the Victorian era, when such furnishings were popular among British residents in India, facilitating elegant tea servings.
• Recognized as a part of Anglo-Indian furniture history, these tables often symbolize the lifestyle and preferences of colonial elites during the late 19th to early 20th centuries.

Design Significance

• The octagonal shape and intricate floral medallion design may illustrate the artistic melding of British and Indian styles, common in antique furniture from this era.
• Such designs often reflect the craftsmanship and artisan skills prevalent in India during the colonial period, contributing to furniture creation that is both functional and decorative.
• The decorative elements like foliate vines and arabesque spandrels may be seen as expressions of natural beauty that were favored during the period, influencing the overall aesthetic of mid-century furniture.

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