Library Table

An antique library table is one of the most extravagant, elegant pieces of furniture that can possibly adorn any house. In addition, of course, the most well endowed libraries and university campuses in the world have many an antique library table on display or in use. Antique library tables generally cost significantly more than their more basic, modern counterparts, and you can expect to pay anywhere between ten to thirty thousand dollars for a most elegant piece.

One such example of an antique library table is a piece by Holland & Sons crafted around the 1870s. Hence, it is a Victorian era piece. The size is around 70 x 50 x 30 (inches) and it is on sale for anywhere between ten to fifteen thousand dollars. Hence, it is on the ‘cheaper’ end of the most elegant antique library table, but the price tag is still hefty and is therefore no indication that it is in any way cheap. Indeed, the magnificence of this antique library table begins in the wood from which it is made: Mahogany, an extremely dark, durable hardwood, is often used in Victorian pieces and is the perfect choice for this particular table. Its structure is most simple with working wheels by Cope and Collinson , and name stamped drawers along each side. The thing I find most fascinating about this table are the marks (official stamps) on the table indicating that the table was used by major public establishments during the time of Queen Victoria and George V. The writing surface is smooth and superb, ideal for desk work, although due to its value it might be more suitable for display than anything else.

Now, while I have mentioned that an antique library table may cost at least $10,000 typically, please note that I am only talking about the very high end antiques in this case. It is possible to get a small antique library table for five, three or even one thousand dollars. I recently found a beautiful rosewood Victorian library table for just $5,000. Its dimensions were approximately 50 x 25 x 30 (inches) and it had two drawers on each side with the most exquisite, intricate rolled feet, typical of the Victorian era. Its quality is not to be debated but the reason it is so cheap is because of its size.

I also found a leather top table from circa 1860 for less than $1,000. It’s dimensions are approximately 50 x 30 x 30 , so once again a bit small, but perfect for small scale use or a collector’s item on the cheaper side. Again for around $1,000 I found another early victorian library table, again made of mahogany, with very small dimensions (50 x 25 x 30 approx.). The one thing I liked about this particular table was the octagonal legs (absolutely beautiful craftwork). The carved feet were also another example of very impressive work and at under $1,000 this is a steal.

As you can see by now, antique library tables can be extremely pricey, or they can be reasonable in terms of cost, if you know where to look. It all depends on your budget, the purpose of the antique library table you want to buy, and the style of the room it will go in. If you want to know the source of the antique library tables reviewed on this page, do email me and I will see what I can do.