The Antique Dictionary

table à abattant

While some translate this as “drop leaf table,” we prefer to reserve this term for a unique form of split-top table 

These rare and desirable tables and long and narrow with a top that is split and folds open along the longest side to double the size of surface. Closed they can function as a console and, opened, a full-size table making them extremely versatile pieces.  Their folding hinges are always substantial in scale, to bear the weight of the top, and recessed so as to create a level table surface.