ANTIQUE DROP LEAF TABLES

Drop-leaf tables - made with hinged tops that fold down - have been used in America since the late 1600s. One of the earliest types, the gate-leg table, was common from around 1690 to 1725. Gate-leg tables were generally made of walnut or maple and were solidly built with four turned stationary legs connected by stretchers, Two additional legs swing out - like gates - to support the leaves. 

Around 1710, the butterfly table, an American innovation, was devised. Usually smaller than gate-leg tables, butterfly tables were named for the wing-shaped leaf supports that pivot out from the stretchers. 

Between 1730 and 1790 swing-leg tables hinged along the rails-were the most popular form of drop-leaf table. Although this type was more graceful-looking than the gate-leg table, it was less sturdy, as it had only two fixed legs. 

The Pembroke table, fashionable from the late 18th century until about 1815, was made with leaf supports that were hinged to the rail, but its I four legs were stationary. These tables were used for breakfast or games.