What is a pier table?

A pier table is a console table designed specifically to fit against the wall space between two windows, known as the pier. These tables were traditionally paired with tall mirrors. They serve as prominent decorative furniture in reception rooms and hallways, providing a flat surface for display.

How do I style a console table?

Console tables sit flush against walls, often anchoring a room beneath a matching trumeau mirror or painting. Their flat tops display decorative objects without obstructing pathways. Keep the surrounding space clear to let the carved giltwood and marble top draw the eye.

Are these tables solid gold?

These tables are made from timber, gesso, and paint, covered with very thin sheets of gold leaf. Solid gold furniture of this scale was not produced for domestic console tables. The gold leaf provides the appearance of solid metal while keeping the structural weight manageable.

How do I date a giltwood table?

Dating relies on the carved style, such as Rococo, Neoclassical, or Baroque, alongside the construction methods of the wood and gesso. Eighteenth-century pieces often display deeper, hand-chiseled motifs compared to later revivals. Examine the underside and the joinery to understand the age of the wooden frame.