How to Determine the Age of a Pedestal Table

A pedestal table is supported by a single pedestal or column in the middle, rather than four legs on the corners, increasing the leg room when chairs are drawn up to it. When you hear the term pedestal table, you are likely to picture a round, wooden dining room or kitchen table, but pedestal tables come in all shapes, sizes and finishes. Whether newly manufactured or antique, these tables are versatile. A small one might work well as a bedside table or plant stand, while a slightly larger table can serve as part of a bistro set. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Research pedestal tables. Visit websites, such as Kovels.com, for information on antique and vintage styles and Spacify.com that specializes in modern and retro styles. You might also peruse furniture catalogs like Pottery Barn and visit furniture galleries, antique stores and flea markets. Look on websites like eBay and Craigslist to find pedestal tables for sale.

2

Inspect the table. The construction of a new table is much different from an antique. Old pedestal tables will have no rough edges or corners. Sharp corners are a sign that the table was manufactured after 1880. If the table is veneer covered, that is, if it has a layer of wood or other material covering the surface, look at the thickness of the finish. Antique veneer is wooden and thick, while new veneer is thin and can be real wood, wood laminate or resin designed to look like wood, tile, marble or another finish.

3

Study how the table is constructed. Old nails and screws were irregular; no two were exactly the same. Newer screws and nails are uniform in size and sharpness. Newer tables may have been glued together. The pedestals on antique or vintage tables were often reinforced with a hard, hammered metal disc or a three-part metal strap. Newer tables get their strength from large staples. An old table will show signs of wear and have a patina that comes only with age. Antique tables made from one solid piece of wood are old. Newer tables are sometimes constructed of plywood or plastic.

4

Call in an expert. An appraiser will know exactly how to determine the age of your table. You can find an appraiser through word of mouth as well as through professional appraisal organizations, such as the American Society of Appraisers.