Trillium Table “Mini” with Slat Shelf (Pear) (SOLD)

Description

This unique table highlights the interesting color and grain patterns used in the pear tabletop, aprons,  and hand-shaped slat shelf.  Diamond-shaped tanoak legs are joined to the pear aprons and lower tanoak stretchers using hand-fitted 3/8″ mortise and tenon joinery glued with West System “G Flex” epoxy providing strong and durable joints. (I have reduced the price on this table because during glue-up one of the apron joins did not seat all the way.  This is a cosmetic defect that results in a slight gap big enough to slide a cigarette paper in but does not compromise the strength of this piece.  After discovering this flaw I decided that the piece is still very fine and strong, but feel obligated to point it out and provide a reduced price…some might classify the piece as a “second”, but if it remains unsold I have no hesitance in keeping it for my family.) Smaller than the other Trillium tables in my unique line, this “mini” measures about 15″ wide and deep by 24″ tall; the slat shelf is approximately 5″ above the floor level.  I try to use wood species native or naturalized to the Pacific Northwest.  The tanoak used for legs and lower stretchers is a native, though I dyed it to make it look more like walnut, providing contrast to the distinctive pear wood.  I chose tanoak because the slab lumber I bought had very tight/straight grain (meaning it is strong) making it a good choice for the structual pieces of the table (legs and stretchers).  The tanoak legs project through and are level with the tabletop adding a bit of design complexity and interest for both the viewer and me, the maker.  The pear lumber purchased in Arcata, CA, originally came from a homestead on the South Fork Trinity River near Hyampom, CA.  The pear tree was probably planted by gold miners during the rush of the 1860’s; the boards I purchased were about 10″ wide and 9′ long, indicating that the pear tree had grown quite large before being salvaged.   The tabletop is affixed to the aprons using slotted steel clips and screws (the only metal used in this piece); the slotted clips allow for seasonal wood movement experienced by all pieces made from solid wood.

Pear shelf slats are about a half-inch thick and are bandsawn to my hand-drawn pattern, not perfect like a computer might shape them, but they are mine.  After roughing-out each slat on the bandsaw, I hand shape the final curves using a very fine spokeshave and “hand stitched” French rasps until satisfied with the end result. Each slat is individually affixed to the lower stretchers using specially shaped “Miller Mini-X” dowels that are glued in through the slat into the lower stretchers.  I used walnut dowels in this instance to complement and enhance the appearance of the pear shelf slats.  Each dowel is flush-cut using a fine, kerf-free Japanese saw blade and then flush pared with a very sharp chisel.

The piece is finished with four hand-rubbed coats of Maloof oil/poly mix then topped with 2-6 coats of Minwax quick dry polyurethane for protection.  Though the surfaces are quite durable, placing a hot object directly on the tabletop or shelf will cause a “ring” because of the oil finish used in the initial coats.  The polyurethane will provide protection from the occasional spill of water, wine, soda, etc. allowing for simple cleanup with a damp cloth or sponge.

This particular piece has been exhibited at several shows, so I also polished it with Clapham’s beeswax polish; any commonly available furniture polish will keep it looking like new for years. Treating this finely crafted piece with care and respect deserved by fine furniture, I anticipate that more than one generation will enjoy displaying it in their home or office.

Retail price listed includes Domestic US shipping; for other locations, please inquire before placing an order.