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Worktable
William Hook (American, 1777–1867)
about 1808
Object Place: Salem, Massachusetts, United States
Medium/Technique
Mahogany, satinwood, pine
Dimensions
73.0 x 51.4 x 39.5 cm (28 3/4 x 20 1/4 x 15 9/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. John B. M. Mactaggart
Accession Number39.555
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsFurniture – Tables, stands, screens
A lady's worktable held fancy needlework and other sewing materials in its hanging bag, as well as writing papers, quills, and other tools in the drawer or interior compartments. Such tables were small and lightweight so that they could be moved easily-placed next to a sofa or chair or stored against the wall. Hook made this table as a wedding present for his sister Hannah, who married Peter Folsom in 1809.
Catalogue Raisonné
Randall 100
ProvenanceMade in 1808-09 by William Hook as a wedding present to his sister Hannah, who married Peter Folsom on August 17, 1809; this work table was part of a group of objects in the collection made for this occasion (see also 38.67, 39.556, 39.557, and 39.379); it descended in the Folsom family and was lent by Hook's grandniece, Mrs. John B. M. Mactaggart (born Elsie B. Folsom), March 17, 1942; converted to a gift in 1955.