Were these tables fixed to the wall?

Many console tables of the 18th and 19th centuries were designed as wall-mounted pieces, utilising brackets or a combination of front legs and wall fixings for stability. Their heavy marble tops provided sufficient downward pressure to keep the structure secure against the plaster. Freestanding versions also exist, but the traditional form often relied on the architectural support of the wall behind it to prevent tipping under the weight of the stone slab.

How do I identify French and Italian styles?

French pieces, particularly those from the Louis periods or later revivals, often emphasise restrained symmetry, delicate floral motifs, and serpentine lines. Italian examples tend to feature bolder carving, heavier gilding, and more dramatic structural elements like animal paws or mythological figures. Regional differences also appear in the choice of marble and the execution of the gesso work, with Italian workshops frequently leaning towards a more theatrical baroque expression.

Can I place a console table on an uneven floor?

Because these tables often combine rigid wooden frames with heavy marble slabs, placing them on uneven historic floors requires careful levelling. The marble top usually rests loose on the wooden base, meaning the base itself must be stabilized to prevent any rocking that might shift the stone. Using discreet packing beneath the feet helps protect the structural joints from undue twisting stress over time.