Where should I place a console table?

A console table works best positioned against a flat wall in an entryway, hallway, or principal reception room. Because these tables are traditionally designed to be viewed from the front and sides, they occupy minimal floor space while providing a surface for lamps or decorative objects. Pairing the table with a matching pier mirror or placing it beneath artwork enhances its architectural function within an interior scheme.

Are marble tops original to these tables?

Many antique console tables retain their original inset marble or onyx tops, such as breccia d'alep or variegated stone slabs. Stone tops were chosen for their weight and durability, anchoring the ornate wooden bases securely against walls. When assessing a piece, examine the fit of the stone within the wooden rebate and check for consistency in age between the marble and the base.

How do I distinguish Baroque from Rococo styles?

Baroque furniture emphasises symmetry, monumental scale, and heavy classical motifs like lion paws, bold scrolls, and architectural dignity. Pieces from this tradition project an imposing presence suited to grand interiors. Rococo design introduces asymmetry, fluid C-scrolls, naturalistic shell motifs, and lighter proportions. The carving feels more organic and theatrical compared to the rigorous structure of Baroque work.