Salontafel c. 1920

This Salontafel was made by E.G.C. Schubad and now resides in the Rijksmuseum. Furniture like this table often reflects more than just utility. It embodies societal values, class distinctions, and even personal narratives. Without knowing Schubad’s personal experiences or the specific period of its creation, we can still imagine the context. The table's design, with its clean lines, suggests a move towards functionalism. Consider who might have owned and used this table. Was it a space for intellectual conversation, or quiet domesticity? Perhaps it represents a family's aspirations or their sense of identity. As you consider its form and function, think about how everyday objects often contain stories of gender, class, and personal identity, even when those stories remain just beneath the surface.