How were parlour tables used originally?

In period homes, parlour tables held table lamps, books, tea services, and sewing boxes. They also served as surfaces for card games, skittles, and parlour amusements. Their movable nature allowed hosts to reconfigure rooms easily for entertaining visitors.

How do I tell Victorian from Edwardian tables?

Victorian tables often feature darker timbers, heavier proportions, and rich grain patterns such as burr walnut or rosewood. Carved details and ebonised finishes are common. Edwardian examples tend to be lighter in appearance, frequently utilising satinwood or inlaid mahogany with delicate tapering legs and tray tops.

How do I care for an antique wood table?

Protect antique wood surfaces from direct sunlight and extreme humidity fluctuations to prevent veneer cracking or fading. Use coasters and mats to shield the polish from moisture and heat. Apply a traditional beeswax polish sparingly to maintain the natural lustre of the timber.