“Salesmans samples were a common item in the early 20th century, as salesmen needed a smaller version of their product to show off to retailers, and retailers in turn needed a way to demonstrate the features of larger items, which might need to be ordered from the manufacturer, to their customers.

Many salesman’s samples were highly detailed, with additional marketing copy pointing out important features of the product.” Collector’s Weekly

This model of an architectural table is a rare form of a Sunderland Cylinder table. Fabricated in mahogany with inlays of brass, it has two adjustable leaves along with two drawers for storage of architectural plans.

These English tilt top tables may have been uses as samples or they are apprentice pieces. Usually a little less refined in detail, apprentice pieces would have been the first efforts of students learning their craft. This is quite evident in the Victorian English chaise below.

Grain painted Maine set back chest.

French Thonet child size chairs: for samples,kids or dolls.

French architectural models.

We invite you to explore our inventory of salesman’s samples, doll house furniture and miniature books either online or by appointment.