What is it, part 2: Telephone Table

[Grabart]

So now that I have begun to acquire a few phones, I thought it would be nice to place one or two on display.  While perusing Craigslist I came across this "antique telephone table."  I understand the various parts, but not the curved piece up top.  Does anyone know what that would have been used for?

Sidenoet: When I was dating my wife (who is an inveterate and prodigious talker), I could see resting my head against it while she went on (please don't let her see this), but I'm guessing that's not what it was originally for

Thanks,

Scott

[Dan/Panther]

If you place extra weight on the table, ( As in nodding off during a call ) The arm swings down and smacks you on the head to wake you up.
Seriously I don't know.

D/P

[Greg G.]

Here's one that's similar that says it was for setting the receiver down on.  I don't know if that's really accurate or just someone's guess because it seems impractical to make such a large arm just for that.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/73406186/vintage-mid-century-modern-wooden

This is a wonderful old telephone stand. The receiver would rest on the wooden portion of the arm that rises above, a telephone book fits nicely in the cubby below. Surprise there is even a pull out platform with carved out section for pencil. Nice and sleek.

[unbeldi]

I am not sure I would take the description of 'telephone table' too serious.  A lot of furniture could be construed as such, it seems.
The most typical antique telephone stand that is clearly such, is that with a seating arrangement attached.


Here is another one advertised as such:

[Grabart]

If you place extra weight on the table, ( As in nodding off during a call ) The arm swings down and smacks you on the head to wake you up.

LoL  That's what I was thinking.  Either swings down, or your head droops forward, causing you to tap it on the arm.

I have seen many similar to what others have posted on G Images, but none actually show that arm in use.

For the price, I may get it anyway.  Thank you all.

S

[Doug Rose]

These were telephone tables and meant to be mobile. User would pick it up by the arm and move the table to the person who was going to speak. My grandmother had one pic 1 with a long line cord that moved around her "sitting room."

I also had the one in pic 1, but it was the only casualty of my phone room carpeting. Myself, I think they are real and I am on the lookout at yard sales for a replacement....Doug

[HarrySmith]

I have one and I love it! I would not mind a couple more. Mine has a handle just like in your picture but the body is exactly the same as Brinybay's picture, even with the little drawer for not pad & pencil. Mine also has a hook on the side for holding the extra long line cord you need to move it around the room. I thought I had some pictures but could not find them. If I find them I will add them to this post.

[Doug Rose]

Patience paid off, found a beauty at the Sandwich Flea Market this morning.  Love a Flea in the middle of the week. Pictures to follow. $15 can't beat it!    One more day on the Cape, weather has been amazing  ....Doug

[Doug Rose]

Here it is, not bad condition for its age....Doug

[HarrySmith]

Nice, that looks great! It looks exactly like mine except mine is painted white. I never thought to see what's under the paint. Maybe someday I will take a peek to see.

[Doug Rose]

Thx Harry