Shadow Box Display Table / Glass-Top Display Coffee Table
Table (Coffee or Accent Display Table) · Modern Traditional / Transitional (Late 20th to Early 21st Century) · Likely a home décor specialty manufacturer such as Bombay Company, Ashley Furniture, or Uttermost.
Type
Table (Coffee or Accent Display Table)
Style Period
Modern Traditional / Transitional (Late 20th to Early 21st Century)
Material
Solid wood or high-quality composite frame, glass top surface, decorative metal scrollwork insert, and paper/print artwork with fabric-textured matting.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2010; reflects the "Old World" trend popular in home furnishing during this period.
Dimensions
Approximately 18-20 inches high, with a square top roughly 36x36 inches; typical for a central cocktail table.
Origin
Likely manufactured in China or Southeast Asia for the North American retail market.
Designer/Maker
Likely a home décor specialty manufacturer such as Bombay Company, Ashley Furniture, or Uttermost.
Value Estimate
$75 - $225 USD depending on local market demand and structural integrity (Retail/Secondary Market).
Description
This unique display table functions as both a piece of furniture and a gallery frame. It features a heavy mitered frame with classic moldings surrounding a recessed shadow box area. Inside sits a stylized dragonfly print set against a mottled purple background with a deep green mat. The glass top allows for viewing the art while providing a functional table surface, supported by an ornate metal scrollwork layer beneath.
Key Features
Glass-protected shadow box, transitional dragonfly artwork, gold-rubbed distressed black finish, and scrolled metal decorative insert.
Color & Finish
Distressed black lacquer with gilded (gold leaf or metallic paint) rubbed edges and highlights to simulate aged patina.
Construction Method
Commercial machine-manufactured with hand-applied finishing touches; features a recessed shadow box compartment under a glass top to house artwork or collectibles.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard mitered corners for the frame; likely reinforced with biscuits or staples, typical of modern commercial décor production.
Wood Grain & Species
Species likely Rubberwood, Poplar, or Ash; grain is minimized by the heavy opaque black finish and artificial distressing.
Surface Treatment
Multi-step distressed finish including a black base coat, gold rub-through along the inner and outer moldings, and a protective clear satin lacquer.
Upholstery Details
N/A; no textile upholstery present.
Hardware & Fittings
Includes metal scrollwork visible under the glass; likely utilizes concealed corner brackets or cam-locks for frame assembly.
Origin & Provenance
Likely manufactured in China or Southeast Asia for the North American retail market.
Condition Notes
Good condition; visible wear on the gold edges appears to be intentional distressing, though some genuine surface scratches are present on the wooden frame edges.
Interesting Facts
Shadow box tables gained massive popularity in the 1990s as homeowners sought ways to display family heirlooms, collectibles, or themed art like this entomological-style print.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Global Eclectic' interior design movement of the late 90s, where traditional forms were blended with nature-inspired motifs like insects and botanicals.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with 'Terrarium Tables' which are deeper for plants, or 'Vitrine Tables' which usually have glass sides rather than a solid wooden frame.
Care & Maintenance
Clean glass with ammonia-free spray; dust wood with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid heavy wax polish which can build up in the distressed crevices.
Value Estimate
$75 - $225 USD depending on local market demand and structural integrity (Retail/Secondary Market).
Sustainability Notes
Mainstream commercial production; lifespan is extended by the ability to swap the internal artwork, encouraging reuse over disposal.