Center table, 1870-1880

Renaissance Revival style
Walnut, marble top

In the center of the stylish Victorian parlor, a table displayed the family's treasured possessions: the family Bible, photograph albums, and souvenirs of family outings. The center table also held the brightest and most decorative lamp in the house. Around the table, the family would gather at night to read, sew, or play. In many ways, the center table served as a shrine to the ideal of the close-knit, middle-class family. This table, like the parlor set, belonged to the Hill family of Bloomington. Similar tables sold in the 1870s for about $30 or $40.

Gift of Frances Hill Pillsbury Estate, Bloomington, IL (745137)

Furniture | Wood

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96