How could anyone do this?

by Peter
(California)

Someone at sometime massacred this table (buffet table I would guess) by adding the false shelf, back piece and supports. The original top of the piece is a single piece of solid wood that has a beautiful patina and shows signs of hand chiseling and finishing. Although the veneer below the top is damaged in places it is quite thick and as far as I can see none of the wood underneath is pine. The piece is very heavy and the upper portion is attached to the base with pegs. The top is held in place with old screws, but these may be a recent addition.

Ignoring the recent addition to the top does anyone have any thoughts about the period or provenance of the original piece which looks as if it was lovingly cared for for many years before disaster struck.

Thanks.