How do I date an antique sideboard?

Examine the timber selection, secondary woods used in the drawer linings, and the style of the hardware. Construction techniques like hand-cut dovetails help confirm the period of manufacture. Compare the overall silhouette and inlay motifs against known design books from the Georgian and Regency eras to narrow down the decade.

Where should I place a server?

Position your server against a primary wall in a dining room where it can function as a practical surface during meals. Ensure there is adequate clearance for drawers and cabinet doors to open fully. Keep the piece away from direct sunlight and heat sources to protect delicate satinwood and mahogany veneers from drying out.

Are brass inlaid servers fragile?

Brass inlaid servers require standard care to prevent the metal strips from lifting as the underlying timber responds to humidity changes. Gentle dusting and stable room environments keep the brass secure within the wood surface. These decorative elements represent high-status Regency cabinet work and remain stable when protected from extreme environmental shifts.