How do I identify a Georgian tilt-top table?

Georgian examples typically feature rich mahogany timber, a central turned pillar, and tripod legs terminating in pad or claw feet. Look for traditional joinery and period characteristics such as birdcage support mechanisms. Finer versions often display carved pie-crust borders or tray tops, reflecting the detailed craftsmanship of the eighteenth century.

Where should I place a supper table?

A tilt-top table works well in a living room or hallway where the top can remain upright to display the wood grain as a decorative panel. In daily use, it functions effectively as an occasional surface or small dining table. Keep the timber away from direct heat sources and strong sunlight to protect the polish and prevent the wood from drying out.

What materials were used for these tables?

Timbers vary widely across the inventory, with mahogany and oak forming the foundation of most English and Scottish examples. Walnut, satinwood, cherry, and imported Cuban mahogany also appear frequently in regional pieces. Secondary materials include brass for hardware, hinges, and occasional tea gongs, alongside boxwood used for delicate string inlay.