Buying an Antique Occasional Table

Small tables are easily altered or assembled from unrelated tops and bases. Compare timber, finish, screw holes, wear and scale across all components. Check for wobble, warped tops, split feet and recent blocks. Look beneath marble or tray tops for original rebates and supports. Confirm height and load for the intended room; delicate tripod and pedestal tables should not be treated as modern utility furniture.

Construction and authenticity

Inspect the back, underside and interiors with permission. Construction, hardware, secondary woods, surface and provenance should support one another; no single feature proves a date.

Condition checklist

Test moving parts slowly and check joints, feet, tops and previous repairs. Honest wear is often acceptable, but structural movement, missing functional parts and concealed alterations affect use and value.

Questions for the seller

Ask for a written description of restoration, replaced parts, labels and provenance. For remote buying, request clear photographs of hidden areas.

Practical ownership

Measure the object, access route and intended space. Consider weight, loading and how much use the furniture can safely accept.

Before purchase

For a significant price, obtain an independent condition report. Buy on combined quality, integrity, usefulness and appeal rather than an unsupported age claim.