Inlaid Glass-Top End Table, also known as a side table or lamp table
Table (End/Side table) · Transitional / Contemporary (Late 20th Century to Early 21st Century). It blends Traditional saber-style legs with Modern glass-inlay elements. · Likely a mid-market manufacturer such as Thomasville, Drexel Heritage, or a similar department store brand (e.g., Ethan Allen). No visible maker's mark.
Type
Table (End/Side table)
Style Period
Transitional / Contemporary (Late 20th Century to Early 21st Century). It blends Traditional saber-style legs with Modern glass-inlay elements.
Material
Likely a combination of a solid wood or MDF frame with Burl wood veneers and an inset tempered glass top. Some components may use maple or cherry secondary woods.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2010. The style and finish reflect the 'Transitional' trend popular in the late 90s and 2000s.
Dimensions
Approximately 22" Height x 24" Width x 24" Depth. It is a standard square side table size intended for chair or sofa arm height.
Origin
Likely manufactured in the United States or Southeast Asia (Vietnam/Taiwan) for the North American market. No specific provenance known.
Designer/Maker
Likely a mid-market manufacturer such as Thomasville, Drexel Heritage, or a similar department store brand (e.g., Ethan Allen). No visible maker's mark.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 (Resale/Second-hand market value). Value is primarily functional rather than as a collectible antique.
Description
This square end table features a sophisticated play between light and texture. The centerpiece is a clear glass insert that allows the eye to travel through the piece, surrounded by a rich, mottled burl wood veneer frame. The apron is decorated with horizontal fluting, adding a rhythmic architectural detail, while the slender saber legs taper gracefully toward the floor, tipped with decorative metal accents.
Key Features
Glass-inset top, burl veneer frame, fluted apron, and tapered saber legs with metal-tipped feet.
Color & Finish
Medium-to-dark reddish-brown cherry or sienna stain with a high-gloss lacquer finish. The burl veneer provides a mottled, multi-tonal aesthetic.
Construction Method
Modern factory-made / Mass-manufactured. Likely utilizes cam-lock or dowel assembly underneath with veneer applied over a substrate.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard commercial joinery. The apron likely connects to the legs via internal brackets or pocket screws. The fluted apron detail is a machine-routed feature.
Wood Grain & Species
The top surface features a distinct Burl pattern (likely mappa pearl or walnut burl veneer). The legs show a straighter grain characteristic of cherry or birch.
Surface Treatment
High-gloss top coat with machine-routed fluting (horizontal grooves) on the apron. The glass is recessed into a rabbeted frame.
Upholstery Details
None (Glass and wood construction).
Hardware & Fittings
Includes an inset glass panel. There are visible small metal protective caps or casters at the base of the legs, likely brass or nickel plated.
Origin & Provenance
Likely manufactured in the United States or Southeast Asia (Vietnam/Taiwan) for the North American market. No specific provenance known.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is visible wear on the edges of the veneer, some surface dust, and minor scuffing on the legs. The glass appears intact without major chips.
Interesting Facts
The use of burl wood veneers became a hallmark of luxury 'Hollywood Regency' and later 'Transitional' styles because it creates a unique, marble-like pattern that cannot be replicated by solid wood grain.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'McMansion' era of interior design where traditional motifs (like saber legs) were scaled and modified for modern suburban homes.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Parsons Tables (which have straight legs) or Neoclassical side tables (which would have more ornate carving or gilding).
Care & Maintenance
Clean glass with ammonia-free glass cleaner. Dust wood with a microfiber cloth and occasionally use a high-quality furniture polish (avoid silicone-based sprays). Protect from direct sunlight to prevent veneer lifting.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 (Resale/Second-hand market value). Value is primarily functional rather than as a collectible antique.
Sustainability Notes
The use of veneers is a sustainable way to utilize rare wood patterns; however, the use of MDF or particleboard substrates makes the piece less repairable than solid wood.