Adjustable Reading Stand & Wine Table c.1880

Late 19th.c. adjustable combined reading or music stand and side table by the London maker John Carter c.1880. Known as a 'Literary Machine', designed to stand beside a chair or bed. Featuring a mahogany book holder (16" x 12") with brass page stays over a 14" diameter circular wine table with a raised and moulded edge. Independently height adjustable on a telescopic brass column. The height, angle and horizontal position of the book stand can also be further adjusted with a lockable ball and socket joint on the underside and movable joint in the arm (cast with the name Carter). On a heavy cast iron base for stability with four crisply cast claw feet and large brass castors below. Wear and repairs to the horizontal arm supporting the book stand. Otherwise good condition, cleaned and waxed in our workshops.