How do I maintain an old oak drop leaf table?

Keep the timber nourished by applying natural beeswax periodically to preserve the rich surface sheen and protect the grain. Avoid placing the table near direct heat sources or in fluctuating humidity to prevent timber splitting.

Are these tables suitable for everyday dining?

Many of these pieces were built as functional farmhouse or dining tables and remain sturdy enough for daily use. Use coasters and placemats to protect the historic surface from moisture and heat marks.

How can I tell a seventeenth-century table from a later revival?

Early pieces display hand-cut joinery marks, peg construction, and heavy timber framing that differ from machine-tooled methods. Examine the wear patterns around the hinges and feet for signs of genuine age.