Antique Chinese export carved hardwood Butler's tray table, Circa 1880–1900

A handsome late 19th-century Chinese export carved hardwood butler’s tray table, comprising a large removable serving tray raised on its original folding X-frame stand.

The rectangular tray features a beautifully figured hardwood centre surrounded by a deeply carved border of flowers, scrolling foliage and traditional Chinese auspicious motifs. It is finished with a simulated-bamboo gallery, pierced carrying handles and a finely carved repeating apron.

The elegant folding stand is decorated throughout with carved flowers, foliage and geometric motifs. Its practical campaign-style construction allows it to fold almost flat, while the removable top can be used independently as a serving tray. Today, it would make an attractive drinks table, occasional table or lamp table.

The underside retains part of an old retailer’s or inventory label reading “Jordan & Cook Ltd., Zante” and numbered 10. Zante is the historic English name for Zakynthos, Greece, suggesting the table was exported from China and subsequently retailed on the island.

A decorative and useful piece of late-Qing export furniture, retaining a warm colour and well-developed surface acquired over more than a century.

Condition=: Good solid and useable antique condition with expected marks, rubbing, small knocks and variations in colour consistent with age and use. The underside has transverse supporting battens and a localised old reinforcement or repair to the central tray panel. This work is longstanding and may represent an early workshop consolidation.

Origin: China, probably Canton/Guangzhou

Period: Late Qing dynasty, circa 1880–1900

Dimensions: 75.5 cm wide × 39 cm deep × 51 cm high

Price breakdown: Chinese Butler's tray table - £850, Courier/Delivery Fee UK MAINLAND ONLY - £45