How do I care for an 18th century timber table?

Maintain a stable room environment away from direct heat sources and strong sunlight to prevent the timber from drying and splitting. Regular dusting with a dry cloth preserves the finish without requiring heavy polishes. Avoid placing damp items directly onto antique wood surfaces. Use coasters and protective mats to safeguard the polish and underlying grain.

Can I use an antique table for daily dining?

Many sturdy oak and mahogany tables were built for rigorous daily domestic use. Robust plank top tables and solid dining formats handle regular activity comfortably. More delicate occasional tables or satinwood pieces warrant gentler treatment. Assess the structural stability of the specific frame before assigning heavy daily duties.

How do I distinguish George II from George III styles?

George II furniture frequently displays heavier proportions, robust oak or walnut construction and characteristic cabriole legs ending in pad or claw and foot feet. The earlier aesthetic leans towards structural solidity and understated carved detail. George III pieces often introduce lighter mahogany and satinwood forms influenced by neoclassical design. Straight tapered legs, delicate stringing and symmetrical proportions become prominent during this later period.

What is the difference between a lowboy and a side table?

A lowboy is specifically a small table equipped with drawers, historically utilised for personal grooming or dressing. Their compact scale suits hallways and smaller reception spaces. General side tables may feature drawers or simply an open frieze beneath the surface. They served a wider variety of utilitarian holding purposes around the home.