The Antique Console Table would have originally only had two front legs and permanently be attached to the wall at the back. These magnificent pieces were used to decorate the hall or a formal reception room in your home. Antique console tables were used as part of the architecture of the room and decorated to match with ormolu or gilded finish and intricate carvings.
They originated from France and Italy in the 17th Century but soon became fashionable in Britain in the 18th Century. It was during the late Georgian and Regency periods that these quality antique tables became free standing and were made from more solid figured timbers like Mahogany, Oak or more interesting woods such as figured gained Rosewood or Walnut. They were very expensive pieces of furniture especially in the Pier Table design. This is where a console table would have a pier mirror above to reflect light into the room. The mirrored Glass was extremely expensive as it was difficult to make and had a very high tax to stop it being imported into Britain, so only the very wealthy could afford such a special piece of antique furniture. This is why console tables are usually so well built with interesting features and solid woods. Antique console tables have always been very sought after and collected as it is such a useful piece of furniture that can be used anywhere in your home as a side table or to display your treasured items.
The Victorian and Edwardian eras brought great demand in well designed console and side tables but usually in smaller sizes, so these are more easily placed in modern homes. These would be more highly decorated in inlay and have unique dual features like concealed games surfaces. Have a look below at our lovely examples available for sale.
Below are some examples of antique console tables that we have previously sold, if any style looks like what you are looking for let us know and we can try to find something similar.
Victorian Console Tables
This true antique console table dates from around 1840 in the Victorian period and is constructed from the finest quality mahogany timbers. The piece is stamped with the number 22260; such a stamp is commonly found on a Gillows piece and the quality of the table matches that expected from such a renowned maker although the Gillows mark itself is not visible, this however is not uncommon. The top is in a serpentine shape with a moulded edge with beautiful figuring and sits above a shaped flamed mahogany apron. The front legs are ornately hand carved while the back legs are simple and sturdy in design. The base is shaped and provides the perfect finish for this ‘true’ console table.
Dating from ca. 1870 this Beautifully Inlaid Burr Walnut Victorian Antique Card Table / Console table has a D shaped top with moulded edge. The top is beautifully figured with a ‘mirrored’ burr walnut and had elegant decorative inlay. The top swivels open to double its size, revealing a concealed games compartment in the process and the playing surface is finished in an early green baize. The top sits above four beautifully turned upright supports, has a central decoratively turned finial and four scrolled beautifully crafted legs finished with white porcelain castors.
This Stunning Quality William IV Mahogany Antique Writing / Console Table circa, 1835 has a beautifully figured rectangular top above two drawers with the original turned handles. This stunning table may be used as a console table as well as a writing table.
This unusual, and quite rare, mahogany antique console table dates from around 1835 in the William IV period. Its rectangular top has a bevelled edge and moulded sides above a canted frieze with three oak lined concealed drawers. With a definite architectural look it benefits from beautifully turned front supports resting on cup like designed socles, softening the hard lines of the piece perfectly. The shaped lower tier and delightfully turned feet balance the design well. This antique console table provides the perfect opportunity to own something that truly is unusual while still bringing a sense of history and mystique from the past.
Edwardian Console Tables
Constructed from the finest figured mahogany and brass fittings this stunning antique Edwardian Console Table / Games Table dates from around 1900. It has a beautifully figured top with moulded edges which sits above four elegant cabriole legs. The back legs concertina out to support the top when unfolded. In the process one can find a hidden storage compartment for games, sited on a shelf below the top. Once opened the top reveals a green baize playing surface along with four counter wells, one in each corner. In most cases this lovely table is likely to spend most of its time acting as the perfect console table, its proportions and styling being ideal for that. At first glance one would not immediately recognise its true use. It is of superb quality, the original finish having been revived and cleaned to enhance its beauty.
Georgian Console Tables
This beautiful Georgian mahogany antique table dates from around 1800 and would make the perfect console table when not being used for afternoon tea! When closed it has a rectangular top which opens to double its size and is then supported by the back legs which open using a gate leg action. The front has a frieze drawer with original brass handle and key escutcheon.
This antique Georgian mahogany ‘D’ end games table, dates from around 1800 and would make the perfect console table. It has a beautifully figured ‘D’ end top with cross banding along with boxwood string inlay. The back legs work on a gate leg action to support the top when open, the playing surface itself is made up of a green baize insert. The deep frieze displays boxwood string inlay and sits above four tapering legs.
Dating From Around 1800 In the Regency Period, This Pair of Console Tables are Full Of beautiful charm and character that you would expect to find from an antique. Each has a moulded top with rounded corners above a central turned pedestal with three splayed reeded legs with brass castors.
Related Reviews
Andrew & Alison,
James, just a quick mail to say thank you for your service and help yesterday. The table got back to Chester in one piece and is now assembled in the sitting room looking splendid!We will keep a watchful eye on your web site – we would be very happy to journey up to Clitheroe again should you have any pieces that would find a home at Church Cottage.
Many thanks again, and best wishes.
Andrew & Alison
Andrea,
Hi JamesI have received my tables as promised last Friday night, thank you very much for a professional and courteous service. The tables were wrapped up safely and they are a perfect addition to my home.Thank youAndrea
John and Jan,
Hello James,Just a line to let you know we’re thrilled to bits with the table, the finish is perfect. Do pass on our thanks to those concerned for a job well done, we are very pleased with results of their hard work. Likewise your delivery lads, they were efficient and mindful of their cargo and our home too. We continue to look on your website of course, and will definitely drop by and have a cuppa with you when we’re back in lovely Lancashire :)!With our best regards to you,John and Jan
