Mid Century Tables
Mid century tables bring versatile surfaces and distinct design lines into a room, spanning coffee, side, and occasional forms.
Mid Century Tables
Mid century tables encompass a wide variety of practical surfaces, including coffee tables, side tables, occasional tables, and desks designed for domestic utility.
The selections span from streamlined mid-century modern designs to ornate French styles, alongside earlier Victorian and Georgian pieces that share similar functional footprints.
Buyers seeking mid century tables will encounter diverse forms ranging from compact bedside units to expansive centre tables intended for principal rooms.
Materials and Construction
Construction relies heavily on timber frameworks utilising mahogany, walnut, rosewood, kingwood, and birdseye maple, frequently enhanced by intricate marquetry or parquetry.
Metal elements such as brass, gilt brass, bronze, steel, and wrought iron integrate with glass, marble, slate, and leather inserts to form durable and contrasting surfaces.
Listings feature woods such as mahogany, walnut, rosewood, kingwood, and burr birch alongside brass, marble, and glass.
Assessing Quality
Superior quality in these pieces is demonstrated by the precision of timber selection, such as burr walnut or burr birch, and the fineness of inlay work.
The calibre of metal mounts, including ormolu and cast brass details, alongside the structural integrity of joints and drawers, distinguishes exceptional examples from standard production.
Edward Barnsley·Maison Ramsay
The Mid Century Tables Glossary
- Occasional table
- A small, movable table designed for specific, intermittent use around a room rather than a fixed central position.
- Centre table
- A freestanding table finished on all sides, intended to stand in the middle of a room rather than against a wall.
- Parquetry
- Geometric wood mosaic work used for surface decoration on tabletops and desk lids.
- Ormolu
- Gilded bronze or brass mounts applied to furniture for decorative enrichment.
Mid Century Tables: Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I place a centre table?
Centre tables are designed to sit freestanding in open spaces, making them suitable as a focal point in a hallway or principal room.
Ensure there is adequate walk space around the perimeter so the piece functions properly without obstructing movement.
How do I clean marble tabletops?
Marble surfaces require gentle wiping with a soft, damp cloth and neutral soap to prevent staining or etching from acidic liquids.
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can strip the natural polish from the stone.
What is an étagère?
An étagère is an open piece of furniture featuring multiple tiers for displaying objects or storing small items.
These tables work well in corners or beside seating areas to hold lamps and decorative accessories.
Can I use a desk as a dressing table?
Antique desks equipped with drawers provide suitable dimensions and storage compartments for daily grooming essentials.
Pairing the desk with a matching chair allows it to function effectively in a bedroom setting.