While antiquing in New Milford, Connecticut this weekend, we uncovered this wonderful turn-of-the century oak side table (below). It was in a dark basement, covered with dust and mostly unappealing stuff, but I knew immediately that it was an old and a recognizable form. Tables are such versatile (and collectible) pieces. They can move from room to room, and have so many different purposes. At most flea markets, you’ll find dining tables, tea tables, serving tables, dressing tables, coffee tables, sewing tables–the varieties are endless. You’ll notice that the table legs are often the most distinctive characteristic of a table (old, or new). By far our most favorite table leg is the spool or spindle leg. Something about the marriage of the rectangular lines with circular detail always appeals to us. Below is a wonderful example of an important English rosewood table from around 1835.

Whenever you’re looking at antique furniture, there are a couple of important facts that you should keep in mind to avoid making mistakes. According to my friend Albert Sack, author of Fine Points of Furniture, the evaluation of antique furniture is “scientific and not hit-and-miss as many people believe. Any damages, defects, crudities, and imperfections are shunned, not sought after, by intelligent antique collectors.” So, look closely at the quality of every piece you choose to collect. If it is significantly damaged or imperfect, it’s most likely not a good investment, even if you love it. Below is simple drop-leaf table from my home that I found many years ago at a tag sale: So, for example, if the top of any antique table is a replacement and not the original, this immediately makes the piece less desirable no matter how beautiful the base. When you are considering buying an antique table, turn it upside down if you can, and make sure that both pieces are the same color/type of wood and that the base and the legs “belong” together. It’s a good rule of thumb. Our oak table was a marriage of original parts, and I suppose if we were purists, we’d have left it as is, but we decided to paint it white so that it could ultimately live in a more modern space. Lauren painted it using Glidden “Wicker Chair.” It looks great standing on the front porch, doesn’t it?
what you’ll need:
1. Sponge, water, and soap
2. Sander
3. Gliden interior/exterior high gloss paint in Wicker Chair
4. Sponge brushes

Of course, if you’re looking for a quick fix, there are many reproductions of “spindly” furniture. One of our favorites is this lacquered side table from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams (above, left). We also like this slender spindle leg table (above, right) inspired by a 19th century Scandinavian antique from Wisteria. Enjoy! – S