Montafon Knowledge 7: The Montafon Table

Much of the valley's history has been written on it: the Montafon table has been an important part of the region's culture for 300 years. Today, we would like to introduce you to this distinctive piece of furniture in more detail.

A piece of furniture with history

Four legs and a tabletop. This regional piece of furniture has a classic design. But on closer inspection, there is something special about the Montafon table. The table is made from local woods such as walnut or cherry wood. The legs are connected by raised footrests. These footrests, on which the feet can be placed, are commonly known as "Faulenzer" or "Vergelts Gott." However, in earlier times, they were not only added for convenience. The cold floors of the living rooms made this invention necessary.

Practical and artistic

The most striking feature of a Montafon table is clearly the artistically crafted tabletop. The edge is decorated with elaborate inlay work. In addition to regional woods, rare types of wood were often used for this purpose. This creates a beautiful play of colors in the wood. A slate board is embedded in the middle of the table. Originally, it was not only used for decoration, but also served a variety of purposes. Children learned arithmetic on it, and it was also used to write down household expenses. However, the most important use of the slate board was for playing cards. The Montafoners could write down the score for the popular card game directly on the table.

The perfect place for a break

Montafon craftsmen, who also offered their services while traveling, spread the Montafon table throughout the Lake Constance area. We also have several of these special tables at Fernblick. You will find them in the Montafoner-Stuben in our Fernblick lounge and our new panorama restaurant. During your next stay with us, why not sit down at one of them, enjoy a cup of tea, and let your gaze wander over the artistically designed tabletop.

Photo 1: Christoph Schöch
Photo 2: Montafon Tourismus GmbH, Schruns, Andreas Haller

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