Types of Antique Tables

Tables are considered antique when they are found to be made before the early 19th century. The types of wood used in many antique tables are varied and may depend upon the country of the table's origin. Avoiding refinishing and leaving the antique table untouched often means that the table will be worth more, with some tables priced in the thousands.

Drop Leaf Tables

In the late 1600s drop leaf tables began to be made and used in the United States. Drop leaf tables are typically round shaped when erect, with two opposite leaves that can be dropped down to hang at the sides of the constant middle leaf. Additional versions of the drop leaf table were created, and they differ only in the way in which the leaves are supported when erect. The butterfly table, swing-leg table, and the Pembroke table are examples of drop leaf style antique tables. These types of drop leaf tables are defined by the way in which the support legs or beams hold up the leaves. Additional legs on the butterfly table fold out like butterfly wings to support the leaves of the table, while the swing-leg table and Pembroke are hinged at the table rails.

Specialized Tables

Specialized tables were created for special purposes, such as card tables and coffee or tea tables. The appearance of these specialized tables is different according to a table's use. Coffee and tea tables may be low to the ground for use in front of lounge furniture, while card tables may sit at waist height and resemble the small round kitchen tables of modern times. Some specialized antique tables were created to fold flat for easy storage when not in use.

Candle Stands

Also known as country stands, candle stand tables are tiny platforms supported by pillars or pedestals with tripod bases. The modern-day use for these tables may be to hold a plant, a vase or a telephone, or it may be an entry-way table for mail. People may even use this type of table as end tables. The antique forms of this table type were used for several purposes as well, including for playing games and writing letters. Most of the tables of this type were made from the 17th century and until the middle of the 19th century.

Dining Tables

Stretcher tables were the early names used to describe the antique type of tables now referred to as dining room tables. Their thin tops and large, elaborately decorated table legs define stretcher tables. The antique versions were also used as family dining room tables and were roughly the same size as the modern-day versions, with some styles actually being a little larger. An antique dining table is not easily determinable because many reproductions have been made out of old floorboards, so a professional may wish to certify the table as a true antique.

Classifications

Because numerous knock-offs and replicas have been made, it is necessary that any persons wishing to sell their antique tables have the tables appraised to determine whether or not the tables are truly antiques. Contacting various antique dealers and getting quotes from each will give you an estimate to work with. Antique dealers may also be able to give contact information for an antique table specialist.