Roy Sheldon Butternut Wood Table

1959 | American Studio Craft

A beautifully sculptural 1959 butternut wood table by Roy Sheldon, an important figure in the American Studio Craft furniture movement. The organically shaped top displays the natural character and irregularity of the wood, with a free-form silhouette that exemplifies Sheldon's distinctive approach to furniture making. Water rings and natural patina from use are present.

Sheldon was based in Marlboro, Vermont, where he became known for his highly individual tables made from naturally interesting sections of locally sourced trees. Rather than imposing conventional rectangular forms on the material, Sheldon celebrated the natural shape, grain, and character of each piece of wood. His tables were associated with his informal workshop, often referred to as “Fabulous Tables,” and are now recognized for their connection to the American organic-modern and Studio Craft traditions. Contemporary accounts describe Sheldon sourcing unusual wood and burls directly from local loggers—material that often would not have been selected by conventional sawmills.

This example is particularly appealing for its compact proportions and richly figured butternut top, making it well suited as a side table, occasional table, or sculptural accent piece. The combination of functional furniture and naturally expressive wood is characteristic of Sheldon's work from the period. Examples of his tables from the 1950s are documented in the secondary market and include pieces dated and signed by Sheldon.

Designer / Maker: Roy Sheldon

Date: 1959

Origin: United States

Place of Manufacture: Marlboro, Vermont

Material: Butternut wood

Style: American Studio Craft / Mid-Century Modern / Organic Modern

Dimensions: 26.75" L × 15" W × 19.5" H

A distinctive example of mid-century American studio furniture, this Roy Sheldon table demonstrates the period's growing appreciation for natural materials, free-form design, and the individual character of wood.