40 Broadway Albany NY 12202   (518) 434-2800

bankshot@bankshotantiques.com

 

Rosewood, Bird's-eye Maple and Mahogany are the woods used in this wonderful example of an inlaid Benedict.

 

Inlaid tables are generally ranked based on the complexity of the pattern, how extensively it covers the table, and the general impact. I would say that this table scores very high on all counts. The background Rosewood is exceptionally beautiful and has great contrast with the vertical staccatos of the Bird's-eye Maple. The inlay pattern covers the entire table so completely that you can scarce pick any point on the table more than one inch from a leaf, flower, urn or vine. While many inlaid Victorian tables use a floral motif, the tendency is to be more geometric and abstract in much of the design. Benedict is unique in their use of more naturalistic imagery.

 

This table shows so well unrestored because the previous owner did a refinishing several years ago. We will still put it through our own full restoration process. Benedict was a small company and their output was miniscule when compared to BBC, but we are fortunate to live within a few hours of where they were made and so have had the pleasure of owning and the honor of restoring several. We have not, however, seen this model anywhere before. We may or may not ever see another.