Empire Revival Tiered Coffee Table or Occasional Table
Table (Coffee or Low Side Table) · Empire Revival / Neoclassical Revival, early to mid 20th century (circa 1930s-1950s) · Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of North American factory brands like Mersman or Lane from the mid-century era.
Type
Table (Coffee or Low Side Table)
Style Period
Empire Revival / Neoclassical Revival, early to mid 20th century (circa 1930s-1950s)
Material
Likely mahogany or cherry veneer over secondary wood or pine; solid wood support columns.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960 based on the pillar design and finish wear patterns.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 18-20 inches; Width: 36-42 inches; Depth: 18-24 inches. Low profile typical of coffee tables.
Origin
Likely United States or Canada; found in a warehouse or auction setting as indicated by the masking tape 'LOT 421'.
Designer/Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of North American factory brands like Mersman or Lane from the mid-century era.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD (As-is at auction/thrift); restored value approximately $250 - $350 USD depending on the market.
Description
This is a two-tier coffee table featuring a Neoclassical or Empire Revival influence. It consists of a rectangular top with rounded corners supported by thick, cylindrical columns that rest upon a secondary lower shelf and a sturdy base. The design is utilitarian yet attempts to evoke a sense of 19th-century grandeur through its heavy proportions and dark mahogany tones.
Key Features
Double-tier 'step' design; thick cylindrical pillar supports; rounded 'bullnose' edging on the top tier; deep reddish stain.
Color & Finish
Deep reddish-brown mahogany stain with a semi-gloss lacquer or polyurethane topcoat; showing signs of oxidation and fading.
Construction Method
Machine-made, mass-produced assembly characterized by semi-round supports and edge banding over core materials.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard commercial joinery; likely utilizing concealed screws and glue; edges show veneer layering rather than solid wood joinery.
Wood Grain & Species
Subtle straight-grained mahogany veneer on flat surfaces; columns appear to be solid birch or maple stained to match.
Surface Treatment
Low-sheen lacquer with significant surface scratching, scuffing, and finish loss along the edges; decorative rounded corners.
Upholstery Details
N/A (Non-upholstered hard surface furniture)
Hardware & Fittings
No visible metal hardware; the tiered levels are held together by internal dowels or screws within the wooden columns.
Origin & Provenance
Likely United States or Canada; found in a warehouse or auction setting as indicated by the masking tape 'LOT 421'.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. Notable surface scratches, edge chipping of the veneer, dust accumulation, and finish degradation. Structural integrity appears stable but surface requires full refinishing.
Interesting Facts
Tiered tables like this became popular in the mid-20th century as 'cocktail tables' designed to hold appetizers on the top and magazines on the bottom.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition from traditional period styles to the more functional, simplified mass-produced furniture of the post-WWII American suburban boom.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Duncan Phyfe style tables (which usually have pedestal legs) or Mid-Century Modern slab tables (which lack the Neoclassical columns).
Care & Maintenance
Requires dusting with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid water. Due to the damaged finish, a light sand and re-staining with a mahogany toner is recommended for restoration.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD (As-is at auction/thrift); restored value approximately $250 - $350 USD depending on the market.
Sustainability Notes
A vintage piece that promotes circularity; its durability and solid internal components make it a better candidate for restoration than modern particle-board equivalents.