French Kidney Shaped Table
A french kidney shaped table brings a curved, elegant silhouette to a room, functioning as a practical writing desk, side table, or bedside stand.
French Kidney Shaped Table
When searching for a french kidney shaped table, buyers encounter a curved form developed primarily during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. These pieces appear most frequently as side tables, writing desks, and occasional tables, alongside matched pairs of bedside tables.
The selection spans historical revivals, particularly Louis XV and Louis XVI styles, incorporating ornamental mounts and varied timber surfaces. Makers working in Britain and France produced these curved top designs to fit snugly against chairs or walls while offering a distinctive profile.
How They Were Made
Cabinetmakers constructed the curved carcase using solid timbers such as mahogany, walnut, or kingwood, applying delicate veneers in marquetry and parquetry patterns across the kidney-shaped tops. Burr walnut and rosewood sections provided rich grain movement, framed by banded borders.
Mounts in cast brass and ormolu decorated the legs, aprons, and edges, while inset leather writing surfaces appeared on desk variations. Marble slabs occasionally topped the tables, secured within wooden galleries or brass rims.
Listings feature mahogany, walnut, burr walnut, kingwood, and rosewood, paired with marble tops and ormolu mounts.
What Varies in Quality
The standard of execution lies in the precision of the veneer work and the crispness of the cast ormolu mounts. Finer examples display intricate floral marquetry or geometric parquetry that follows the difficult curvature of the top without distortion.
Substantial framing timbers and well-finished drawer linings distinguish superior desks and side tables from simpler occasional pieces. The integration of quality materials, such as figured burr walnut or substantial marble slabs, elevates the overall execution.
Maison Millet·Tehan·F. Linke
The French Kidney Shaped Table Glossary
- Marquetry
- Decorative veneer patterns assembled from various woods to form pictorial or floral designs on furniture surfaces. It requires considerable skill to fit the pieces across a curved wooden carcase.
- Ormolu
- Gilt-bronze mounts applied to furniture for decorative effect. The metal is cast and then finished with a layer of gold.
- Parquetry
- Geometric wood inlay patterns such as cubes or chequers. This technique decorates table tops and drawer fronts.
- Bureau-plat
- A flat-topped freestanding writing desk, often fitted with drawers. These tables showcase fine timber veneers and metal mounts.
- Kingwood
- A dense, dark timber with pale golden stripes used extensively in nineteenth-century cabinetmaking. It takes a high polish and suits detailed inlay work.
French Kidney Shaped Table: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a kidney shaped table used for?
These tables serve multiple functions depending on their height and fitted compartments. Writing desks and bureau-plats provide a surface for correspondence, while smaller versions operate as side tables or lamp stands.
Pairs of these tables frequently function as bedside units or nightstands. Their curved front allows them to sit comfortably beside seating or beds without obstructing walkways.
How do I identify Louis XV style furniture?
Louis XV style pieces display asymmetrical curves, cabriole legs, and naturalistic floral motifs. The overall aesthetic prioritises flowing lines and organic shapes over rigid symmetry.
Ormolu mounts on these items typically accent the shoulders of the legs and the contours of the apron. The kidney shape itself complements this curving design vocabulary.
How do I care for inlaid wood?
Inlaid surfaces require protection from direct sunlight and excessive moisture to prevent veneer lifting or fading. Periodic application of appropriate furniture wax maintains the timber's lustre.
Avoid placing hot or wet items directly onto the polished wood or leather surfaces. Gentle dusting with a soft cloth preserves the delicate marquetry patterns.