Shaker Work Counter with Drop Leaf – SOLD
Enfield, NH | c. 1840
Yellow birch, pine, and fruitwood
Refinished surface
33 ½” h. x 85” w. x 25 ¾” d. (extended: 37 ¾” d.)
Strikingly minimalist in design, this Shaker Work Counter is a classic form made by the Enfield, New Hampshire, Shaker community. The case is comprised of a yellow birch, mortise and tenon frame with flush-fitting, single-board pine panels on the sides and back. Square legs extend from the upright frame rails to accommodate a comfortable working height.
The six, non-graduated, symmetrical, molded-front drawers are also made from pine and fully dovetailed. In the center of the drawers are single, turned fruitwood knobs—all recent replacements made to approximate the original knobs. The single-board top is a monumental slab of pine—85 by 25 ¾ inches—with a twelve-inch, single-board, rule-jointed drop leaf extending from the rear of the case. The leaf extension is supported by pull-out battens with original brass rings.
The form and proportions of this piece mirror other known examples of Enfield Shaker counters, which were ubiquitous in shops and sewing rooms. Sold by the La Salette Brethren in the 1940s, this Shaker Work Counter was purchased by Evelyn M. Rice (nee Jarvis, 1903-1977), a resident of Lebanon, New Hampshire. It was removed from the Enfield Shaker property and brought to the millinery shop owned by Evelyn and her sister, Thelma J. Jarvis (1900-1986) in Windsor, Vermont, (about 25 miles from Enfield). From there, the piece was purchased by Richard E. Blodgett (1902-1976), also of Windsor, before being transferred to his son, Richard Blodgett Jr., of North Stonington, CT.
Originally painted red, this Shaker Work Counter has been refinished. Overall, it is in a very fine state of preservation.
To inquire about this piece,
contact by phone:
914-763-8144
Or, you can reach us by email: jkr@jkrantiques.com