What is a pier table?

A pier table is a fixed surface designed to stand against a wall, traditionally placed in the architectural space between two windows. These pieces often support decorative objects and pair visually with matching mirrors hung directly above them.

How do I spot a reproduction?

Distinguishing period work from later revivals requires examining the construction methods of the wooden frame and the age of the marble. Revival pieces from the early twentieth century often display different timber seasoning and machine-cut joinery compared to nineteenth-century originals.

Where were these tables placed?

Nineteenth-century interiors utilised these tables primarily in formal entrance halls, drawing rooms, and parlours. Their shallow depth allowed them to occupy circulation spaces without obstructing movement through the room.

Are the marble tops original?

Marble slabs on these tables were cut to fit specific frames, though replacements occasionally occurred due to breakage over long periods of use. Examining the underside of the stone and its seating rebate helps determine if the marble matches the age of the timber base.