What is the difference between a tea trolley and a bar cart?

Tea trolleys typically feature wooden frames with drop leaves or removable trays designed for afternoon tea and service. Bar carts lean towards twentieth-century designs, often incorporating brass, chrome, and glass tiers specifically for holding bottles and glassware.

How do I care for a wooden serving trolley?

Maintain timber surfaces by applying appropriate beeswax or polish to nourish the grain and protect against moisture rings. Avoid placing hot cups or wet glasses directly onto antique polished wood without using coasters or protective mats.

Can these trolleys be used safely on carpets?

Most vintage trolleys feature small wheels or castors designed for hard floors rather than thick modern carpets. Moving a laden trolley across heavy pile requires care to prevent tipping, as older castors lack modern swivel mechanisms.

How do I identify an Art Deco serving trolley?

Art Deco trolleys typically date from the 1930s and feature geometric forms, circular trays, and contrasting materials like chrome and black glass. They often utilise figured walnut or amboyna veneers alongside polished metal rather than traditional carved wooden ornamentation.