Antique Side & Occasional Tables

When buying an antique side table, start with the construction: mortise-and-tenon joints, drawers that slide cleanly, and original legs that have never been replaced. Fine timbers — Cuban mahogany, Rio rosewood, solid walnut — reveal themselves through the depth of their grain and the warmth of a natural patina built up over generations. Be wary of recent veneers, which tend to look unnaturally uniform and flat.

A maker's stamp or a recognised publisher's mark — Weisweiler, Jacob or Riesener for 18th-century pieces, or the great 19th-century Parisian workshops — adds considerably to a piece's value and authenticity. For guéridons with marble tops, inspect the slab carefully for repaired cracks and confirm that the bronze mounts are consistent in style and patina with the declared period. A documented provenance — an old invoice, a collection label — is always a reassuring bonus.

In terms of budget, antique occasional tables are among the most accessible antiques on the market. Expect to pay £150–£500 for a sound Napoléon III guéridon, £800–£3,000 for a stamped or genuine Louis XV piece, and more for a signed work by a notable ébéniste. Mahogany nests of tables from the 19th century remain perennially popular for their practicality. Always check the stability of the legs and the integrity of the joints before committing to a purchase.

On Antiquités en France, every side table is offered by a verified professional dealer who can supply detailed photographs, exact dimensions and, where available, a provenance certificate. Contact the seller directly with any questions about authenticity, condition or shipping — they are specialists who know their pieces inside out.