Tables weren’t always used for dining

The “Foot Art” table was sold by Burchard Galleries in Florida. statues or on a series of geometric-shaped blocks.

Perhaps the strangest table seen recently is the “Foot Art” side table. It has a flat top, one drawer with a human nose for a handle,

and a resin foot for the base. The large foot in a blue boot supports the top on three metal rods stretching up from the inside of the boot. It was sold by Burchard Galleries in Florida.

Q: I inherited two oil paintings by Stuart Scott Somerville. One has a label on the back that says: “A Muted Bunch.” They both are about 29 by 24 inches and have the original gilt frames.

I explored the cost of cleaning them a long time ago and found it expensive. Also, the restorer wants them reframed.

My mother might have purchased them in London a long time ago. During World War II, they were hidden in China and eventually shipped to her. How much are they worth?

A: Stuart Scott Somerville (1908-83) was a British artist. His paintings sometimes sell at auctions. Art galleries and museums have access to past sales and can help you determine their value. They also can refer you to reputable restorers in your city. Cleaning the paintings might add value, but don’t reframe them. The original frames add value.

CURRENT PRICES

Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the United States. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions.

• Peters & Reed vase: brown, green, vines, column shape, 12 inches,

$ 15

• Tea caddy: wood, porcelain panels, figures, garden landscape, lacquer, multicolor, footed, 9 inches, $ 125

• Sewing box: burlwood, coffin shape, diamond and line inlay, ring handles, paw feet, 7 ½ by 2 by 12 inches, $450

• Satin glass jar: diamond, pink, cased, domed lid, pomegranate finial, 1920, 12¼ inches, $510

• Doulton jardiniere: pedestal, impressed autumn leaves, red, tan, Lambeth, 24 by 14½ inches, $630

• Weathervane: gilt, pointing finger, banner, copper, zinc, 1880, 18½ by 52 inches, $ 2,440