Easter Eggs

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I couldn't resist buying this antique card table, a style that was incredibly popular in the 1920s and '30s. The painting on the tabletop is called Sunshine and Shadows, by artist Rudolf Weber. The watermarks are a sure sign that this little table was well loved and well used over the years.

Of course, as soon as I brought it home, I disappeared down a rabbit hole researching how to clean such a delicate tabletop. It turns out that's not as easy as you'd think. The artwork is actually a paper-based color lithograph, making it incredibly fragile. From everything I've read, there's a chance the lighter white watermarks can be reduced, but the darker stain has likely become a permanent part of the table's history. And honestly, I'm okay with that. Every old piece carries a story, and sometimes the imperfections are what make it special.

One of my favorite features is that the table folds up and becomes a framed piece of artwork when it's not in use. Such a clever concept! It fits my old house perfectly, looking as though it has been there for decades instead of just arriving.

This certainly won't become the card table that's pulled out for food and drinks. It's earned a quieter retirement than that. But it would be perfect for an evening of cards or even a game of Mahjong, although it's just a tad too small for a full Mahjong setup.

It's that darn Facebook Marketplace that keeps getting me into trouble. When someone offers up a beautiful antique like this for only $35, how am I supposed to resist? Financially, it's probably worth around $150 in its current condition because of the watermarks, but to me it's timeless. It feels priceless, as if it simply wandered back home after being away for a very long trip.

Sometimes I wonder what would happen if I ever moved. I think I'd either have to find another old house or completely reinvent my decorating style. My old treasures belong in an old home. The worn wood floors, quirky corners, and vintage finds all seem to understand one another.

For now, though, I'm just looking forward to the first time I flip open this little table and deal the cards for a game night. It's also doubtful Tim would have ever noticed the newest addition, even though it's sitting prominently against the wall disguised as a painting. He'd probably swear it's always been there.

Unfortunately, thanks to this blog, I keep giving away all my little Easter eggs before he has the chance to discover them himself. Maybe next time I'll see how long it takes him to notice... although I have a feeling I'd be waiting a very long time. 

"Every object has a story if you know how to read it." ~ Henry Ford