How do I spot a fake?

Examine the drawer linings and undersides for tool marks, timber shrinkage, and consistent wear patterns that match genuine age. Machine-cut screw threads or modern adhesives indicate later alterations rather than original nineteenth-century manufacture.

Were these tables used in kitchens?

Many sturdy oak tables served utilitarian functions in domestic workspaces, including food preparation and general household administration. Thicker plank tops and simple scrubbed finishes typically point towards farmhouse or provincial kitchen origins.

How do I care for oak?

Maintain the finish by applying natural beeswax sparingly and buffing with a soft cloth to preserve the surface sheen. Keep wooden furniture away from direct heat sources and dramatic humidity shifts to prevent timber splitting.

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

Side tables are freestanding pieces designed to stand against any wall, finished on all primary visible sides. Console tables traditionally require wall fixing or rely on specific bracket placement, often featuring decorative front legs with simpler rear supports.