What periods do these pieces date from?

The pieces span the seventeenth century through to the Art Deco period of the 1930s, with a strong representation from the Victorian and Regency eras. Styles range from Queen Anne revival and French Empire to Aesthetic Movement and Chinoiserie. Craftsmen across these different periods utilised black finishes, lacquer, and gilding, adapting traditional forms to changing domestic tastes.

How do I care for a black lacquered table?

Keep these surfaces away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture to protect the delicate lacquer and gold leaf. Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth without harsh chemical polishes. Because finishes like lacquer and papier-mâché can be sensitive, placing coasters or protective mats underneath items helps preserve the original surface.

What is the difference between ebonised wood and black lacquer?

Ebonised wood involves staining or painting timber directly to achieve a deep black appearance while retaining the underlying grain or texture of the wood. Black lacquer builds up multiple resin or varnish layers to create a hard, highly reflective, glossy surface. Both finishes provide the dark background characteristic of these pieces, but they involve distinct materials and application methods.

Where were Chinoiserie tables placed?

These tables served as occasional pieces, tea tables, or decorative centrepieces in principal reception rooms, drawing rooms, and boudoirs. Their reflective black and gold surfaces caught the light from candles or windows. Owners utilised them to display small decorative objects, hold tea service items, or simply add a dramatic focal point to an interior.