Description
A beautifully designed & crafted teak extending dining table by Tom Robertson for A.H. McIntosh in the 1960s. This model is extremely popular due to the fact that it can be extended to seat 6 people. It features an extension leaf, making it a very versatile dining table. This retro table extends quickly and easily by simply pulling the two halves apart which reveal the hidden leaf. The leaf swivels upwards then the table ends can then be pushed back together to achieve the extra length. The chairs (2 standard 2 carvers) are extremely good-looking, with attractive fabric seat pads. The set also includes an additional 2 spare chairs that can be used when guests come to dine.
Scottish furniture manufacturer McIntosh is best known on the vintage market for their mid-century style furniture, particularly for teak cabinetry and sideboards. Founded in 1869 by Alexander Henry (A.H) McIntosh (1835-1919) in Kirkcaldy, Fife. The business quickly grew in size, requiring new, larger premises just a decade later. In 1879, McIntosh bought a new factory and opened Victoria Cabinet Works a year later.
Though little information regarding McIntosh’s early designs is available, it is known that the factory—like many British enterprises—joined the war effort during the First World War. With most workers (including the founder’s grandson, Henry) called up to enlist, the McIntosh factory began manufacturing airplane wings and other parts for the duration of the war. During this time, Alexander Henry’s son Thomas Wishart McIntosh (1861–1933), headed the family business from London, where McIntosh had established an office.
Despite an aesthetic that could be mistaken as Danish modern, the company marketed itself, both at home and abroad, as a proud Scottish firm that utilized traditional processes and that employed local, highly-skilled cabinetmakers. The McIntosh label, which survives on many 1950s and 1960s pieces, shows the Scottish thistle and crown, a long-time symbol of Scotland. From 1948 until 1983, Tom Robertson worked as head designer for the firm; creating his most notable design, the teak Dunvegan sideboard (1960s) known for its sculpted handles.
All items of this period will show some signs of use commensurate with their age. This item is in very nice condition but shows a little wear at one point of the table’s edge (see photo).
Dimensions: H76 x D98 x L152cm (Length when extended – 205cm)