The earliest form of antique side table is probably the Low boy. It was a provincial early table intended to be used as a dressing table or occasional use. They originated in the 18th century and made from locally sourced English Oak or Walnut with one or two drawers on the front. These splendid Georgian side tables would often have a working drawer with brass swan neck handles and stands on tapering legs with pad feet.
More fine materials were used in the early 19th Century like this Sensational Regency Antique Side Table made from Mahogany. It has beautifully figured half moon top with satinwood cross banding and boxwood and ebony string inlay.
The Victorian era lead to interesting designs with slightly more decoration. This Superb 19th century Victorian Side Table is in the French style and made from Walnut with spectacular Inlays and decorative brass banded edge.
During the Edwardian period, the use of inlay was commonly used in the decoration of antique furniture. This Elegant Small Edwardian Side Table has a Mahogany lined frieze drawer with decorative brass handles, it has the qualities of a Maple & Co piece.