Welcome! Presenting an early 20th century walnut library table with a football shaped brand mark in the wood underneath that says "French Trade Mark (on either side of what looks like a face) Minneapolis". There is also a number "4452" stamped into the wood underneath. The table measures about 22 1/2 inches high, 23 3/4 inches wide, and about 14 inches front to back. Underneath the surface is a slanted shelf for books. The supports or legs have a carved keyhole shape. The table mixes elements of Arts & Crafts and later Victorian/Nouveau style. As to condition issues, the surface has some dark beverage or plate rings, one of the end supports has some white paint splatters on the exterior and interior lower area and the underside of the surface has some dark, vertical gouges or tool marks. Other than that, it is a nice, sturdy little table, a great piece of early 20th century useful furniture by the noted interior designer William A. French.

Here is some information on French from the Facebook page of Glensheen, the historic Congdon estate in Duluth:

"William A French, Interior Designer

William A French is one of a select group of American cabinet and furniture makers and interior decorators who have achieved lasting success and international recognition for their work. He designed the first phonograph cabinet for Thomas Edison and manufactured cabinets for him for several years. He was also asked to send exhibits each year to the Metropolitan Museum. He was once quoted as saying ‘I have always enjoyed the work of creating beautiful things…not only for the joy they give others, but for the feeling that I am making a lasting contribution to the world.’ "

More information on William A. French and his interior design and furniture business can be found at the site of the Minnesota Historical Society.

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