How do I identify a true antique french farmhouse table?

Look for heavy solid timber construction, typically oak or chestnut, showing deep wear and authentic peg joints in the frame. Undersides and drawer linings should display hand-planed marks rather than modern machine sawing.

What is the difference between a centre table and a side table?

A centre table is finished on all four sides to stand free in the middle of a room for display. Side tables or console tables are generally built to sit flush against a wall.

How should I care for a marble top table?

Wipe spills immediately with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding acidic cleaners that etch the polished stone surface. Apply a neutral stone sealer periodically to protect against staining from oils and liquids.

Are art deco tables different from nineteenth-century pieces?

Nineteenth-century pieces favour ornate revival styles, curved cabriole legs, and elaborate marquetry inspired by earlier royal courts. Art deco examples from the nineteen-thirties embrace geometric simplicity, sleek rosewood, and streamlined silhouettes.