How do I date an oak bedside table?

Dating relies on construction methods, timber characteristics, and style markers present in the piece. Hand-cut joints and distinct tool marks point to earlier periods, while machine-cut components indicate twentieth-century production. Hardware styles, secondary woods such as pine, and specific revival motifs further help narrow down the decade of manufacture.

Are these tables solid oak?

Most examples utilise solid oak for the primary exterior surfaces and structural frame. Secondary timbers like pine often appear in concealed areas such as drawer linings and internal baseboards. Some pieces combine oak with marble tops or brass fittings, particularly in nineteenth-century and continental designs.

How do I care for polished oak?

Regular dusting with a soft, dry cloth preserves the finish of polished oak surfaces. Avoiding direct sunlight and sustained moisture prevents the wood from warping or the polish from degrading. Occasional application of appropriate wax feeds the timber and maintains the natural lustre of the grain.