Where should a server go?

Place a server in a dining room to hold tableware, drinks and serving dishes during meals. They also function well in large hallways or living spaces as display surfaces. Ensure adequate clearance around the piece so cabinet doors and drawers open fully without obstruction from other furniture.

How do I clean walnut?

Dust surfaces regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent grit accumulation on the polished wood veneer. Avoid silicone sprays or harsh chemical cleaners that damage antique finishes. Apply a quality beeswax polish occasionally to nourish the timber and maintain a soft, protective sheen across the grain.

Burr walnut comes from the wart-like growth on a walnut tree, producing dense, swirling patterns of grain. Cabinetmakers slice this wood into thin veneers to cover larger surfaces. Because every growth is unique, furniture featuring burr walnut displays one-of-a-kind patterns that catch the light from different angles.

How do I date a server?

Examine the overall silhouette, handles and construction techniques to determine the period of manufacture. Art Deco pieces from the 1930s feature geometric lines, while Edwardian and Queen Anne revival pieces display traditional curves and cabriole legs. Look inside drawers and on the back panels for stamps, paper labels or signature details left by the maker or retailer.