How do I distinguish a converted tray from an original low table?

Examine the height of the legs and the relationship between the top and the base supports. Converted trays often show evidence of altered or newly made stands beneath antique tray surfaces. Look closely at the fixing points and screw types underneath to understand whether the base and top share the same period of manufacture.

Were these tables originally used for cocktails?

Most older pieces served different domestic functions, such as tea service, writing, or serving food, before modern living adopted them as cocktail tables. Trolleys and butlers trays were adapted over time for holding glassware and bottles. Purpose-built low tables emerge more prominently in the twentieth century as domestic seating arrangements shifted toward low sofa layouts.

How do I care for a mahogany surface with a leather insert?

Keep the wood nourished with appropriate wax polishes and protect the surface from direct heat and moisture. Leather inserts require gentle cleaning with a slightly damp cloth followed by a suitable leather conditioner. Avoid using harsh chemical sprays that can strip the traditional polish from the mahogany frame or dry out the leather.