An antique table crafted from a mulberry tree planted by William Shakespeare over four centuries ago has been discovered in a suburban home in Horsham, West Sussex. The tree, originally planted by Shakespeare himself approximately 417 years ago, was felled in the 18th century by a homeowner seeking to deter tourists from visiting the property.

The table, measuring 135 centimeters in diameter, is one of only two known pieces made from the wood in 1830. It entered private hands after being won in a raffle and eventually came to rest in the current owner's residence. Experts have appraised the table’s value at around £8,000.

The piece is scheduled to be auctioned in Washington, West Sussex, on November 5. The historical provenance linking the wood back to Shakespeare has garnered significant interest among collectors of literary and antique memorabilia. The table serves as a rare physical connection to the bard, whose influence continues to resonate in cultural and historical circles worldwide.