An exceptional solid oak "joint stool" made in England dating to the 1700s, elongated to bench proportions for seating, a display surface, or an unexpected coffee table. Joint stools were often made by apprentices as a test to their skill level. Restrained in design, this example offers a narrow rectangular top of a single plank, in swirls of toffee and mahogany color animating the grain pattern. The seat features a low, routed edge along the perimeter with further examples of hand-carving techniques in the apron and four turned legs connected by stretchers. Cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to preserve the historic character and patina. Please view the detailed images to see more.