AFA 20th Anniversary

20th Anniversary 122 www.afamag.com |  www.incollect.com The floral inlay on the top of this table is closely related to a highly important group of early Pennsylvania German furniture made in or near Philadelphia; it reflects the work of a craftsman trained in traditional Continental marquetry, in which techniques such as scorching and line engraving are used to create detail and shading. Philadelphia was the port of arrival for approximately 81,000 German-speaking immigrants who arrived prior to 1783. Although most soon settled in the surrounding backcountry, a significant number stayed in the city. In 1730, approximately 15 percent of Philadelphia’s population was German; by 1740, this had grown to 25 percent, and in 1760, reached a height of 45 percent. Tea table, Philadelphia area, Pa., ca. 1745. Walnut with mixed-wood inlay. H. 28, diam. 35 inches. Rocky Hill Collection.