Where should I place a centre table?

These tables are designed to stand in the middle of a room, functioning as a focal point for lamps, flowers or decorative objects. Because they are finished on all sides, they allow for unobstructed movement around them while defining the layout of the space.

How do I clean a painted wooden table?

Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry cloth to prevent accumulation without disturbing the painted or gilded finish. Avoid chemical polishes and moisture, which can damage aged paint layers and delicate metal leaf.

Are marble tops original to these tables?

Many surviving tables retain their original heavy marble inserts, which were chosen for their durability and decorative contrast against the painted woodwork. When assessing a piece, examine how the marble sits within the wooden rebate to check for period consistency.

What distinguishes an Empire style table?

Empire style pieces display classical architectural motifs, often featuring parcel-silvered or gilded accents, column supports and formal symmetry. This aesthetic contrasts with the more fluid, curving lines of earlier Rococo and Louis XV revivals found in similar tables.