Tilt-top table, William IV style.

This tilt-top table was made by cabinetmaker Johann Levien during his brief residence in New Zealand from 1840 to 1843. The table is veneered in totara, over a base of Brazilian mahogany and European pine. The pedestal support is hinged to parallel ‘lopers’ or bearers on the underside of the table top, allowing it to tilt and be stored away when not in use.

German-speaking Levien came to New Zealand in 1840 to discover new and exciting timbers for cabinetmaking. Although he stayed for only a short time he continued to work with New Zealand native timbers for the rest of his career, and in 1861 published a book titled The woods of New Zealand, and their adaptability to art furniture. This is the only piece known to have been made while Levien was in New Zealand, although an example of his later work is held by the Royal Collection Trust.

Further reading