How to Identify Adams Console Tables

(Above photo - Pair painted Adams console tables )

From the 17th century, console tables were side table fixed on the wall with only a pair of front legs providing support. Usually, the backside of the table remained undecorated since people only viewed the front. The purpose of the console table was to serve as a pier table next to a large mirror or a surface for displaying various items.

However, Adams console tables are freestanding, having four legs. The console tables are the products of Robert Adam, who first learned about architecture while on tour in France and Italy. Having served as an architect under King George III, Adams designed grand buildings, showcasing the success and wealth of the growing British Empire. He worked together with his brothers to create elegant furniture such as console tables, which is the subject of this particular article. The following are some of the characteristics to look for in these tables.

Materials

(Above photo - Adams Console Mahogany Inlay Regency Interiors )

Like other furniture pieces by the Adams brothers, the console tables were made from mahogany and satinwood. They are simple yet beautiful pieces of furniture that served various roles in the home. Because of the affordability of the materials used in making the furniture, they were loved by the royals, nobles, and middle class alike.

Gilding and Painting

(Above photo - Pair Adams Console Tables Regency Demi Lune Hall Table Gilt )

As was the custom, Adams console tables were gilded, albeit on a much lower scale. Its gilding was similar to that in the French Empire style but much toned down compared to the classical Chippendale style. Also, some console tables were painted to enhance harmony with some architectural features inside your home. Sometimes, the wood would require staining with a clear coat of paint to leave it bearing the natural wood colour.

Motifs and Ornamentation

(Above photo - Adams console table with bow front )

Adams made many types of furniture like cabinets, clock cases, chests, chairs, and settees. Therefore, console tables were only an addition to the many items created by the Adams brothers. Regardless of the type of furniture under consideration, you will likely find classical motifs like wheatears, drapery swags, medallions, ran heads, urns, and honeysuckle. Apart from the motifs, the console tables might have ornamentation like elaborate inlays, carvings, and fluting.

Straight Legs

(Above photo - Pair Adams Console Tables - Regency Gilt Demi Lune Hall Table )

Adams console tables have straight legs created in different styles. Thus, you will likely find straight tapered, round, turned, reeded, or straight square legs. However, consecutive legs were used in more furniture pieces and not just the console table.

Conclusion

One thing that comes out of Adams console tables and other furniture is that they relied heavily on the neoclassical style, which was popular during the last half of the 18th century. The tyle integrated elements of architecture and furniture making. Robert Adam worked together with his brothers John Adam, Robert Adam, and James Adam. As a result, they developed beautiful console tables that can serve various purposes in the world. You can identify these pieces of furniture by considering the materials, decorations, motifs, ornamentations, and straight legs. If you are looking for Adams console tables to buy, we have some of the best in the world.