Are these original period tables?

The selection includes pieces dating from the mid-nineteenth century through the early twentieth century. Many reflect revival movements that looked back to eighteenth-century court furniture. Craftsmen built these tables using traditional techniques and timbers like walnut, kingwood, and rosewood. Each piece bears the marks of its specific manufacturing era.

How do I clean the wood?

Dust the surface regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dirt accumulation in the veneer joints. Avoid using modern aerosol polishes that leave chemical buildups on older finishes. Apply a traditional beeswax occasionally to nourish the timber and maintain its natural lustre. Keep the table away from direct heat sources to prevent the veneer from drying out.

What is the difference between marquetry and parquetry?

Marquetry involves cutting and assembling wood veneers into pictorial scenes, such as floral sprays or landscapes. Artisans select various timbers to create natural colour shading within the design. Parquetry uses geometric shapes arranged in repeating patterns like cubes or herringbone. Both techniques often appear together on the same tabletop.

How do I identify Louis XV style?

Louis XV style furniture is characterised by asymmetrical curves, cabriole legs, and organic scrollwork. This aesthetic emerged from eighteenth-century rococo design and saw revivals in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Tables from this design tradition often feature serpentine edges and floral marquetry motifs. Ormolu mounts are frequently shaped to follow the flowing contours of the aprons and legs.