French Farm Tables

Create A Country French Ambiance

If you long to create a Country French Ambiance
in your home there is one piece of furniture that can
make your decorating job much easier. An Antique
French Farm Table, aka, trestle table, harvest table,
and Refectory table. Some of our fondest memories
will be created during the Holiday Season as we
gather around the table and partake of the feast.
Ever wonder why most of life's most special moments
take place while we are eating? Must be our
European roots.


The one thing I absolutely adore about the Country French Lifestyle is that it revolves
around the table. And.. more times than not it happens to be a Refectory table.
The Refectory table came about in the 16th Century, so named due to it's use in
Monasteries, where the eating room was known as a Refectory.
Most in Europe were made from hard woods such as Walnut and Oak. These woods would
withstand abuse.
Most are made from separate planks that have been joined together, resting atop
chanfreiné (beveled) legs. The art of joining happens to be one of the
highest art forms of cabinet makers. Many farm tables also have what is called a
breadboard top


This is when the end planks go a different direction which adds stability to the joined boards.
Many have the typical H stretcher (the French call it the stretcher for the chat) (cat).
It is also very common to find a deep drawer in either or both ends of the table.
So the story goes, these were used to store the monks monogrammed napkins
after each meal. Laundry was only done once a week so it was necessary for them to re-use
their napkins.
These deep drawers would necessitate deep friezes (aprons) which can be a draw back.
Hence the use of benches at the table.
If you are considering a Farm table don't be discouraged by the height. If you prefer to cross
your legs at the table, it is relatively simple to have your table's legs built up by a good woodworker.

They also have many uses with a little imagination!

They make beautiful bathroom vanities topped with
ironstone vessel sinks and straw baskets underneath.
Islands and work tables in the kitchen.
Desks for your home office.
Saw the legs down and you have a beautiful coffee table.
However you choose to use it, a French Farm Table is a good investment and patina is
something you can't reproduce.
If you are looking for a 19th century farm table, I carry a wide variety at my shop,
European Antique Market.
I have French, Spanish and Zinc topped. All are in the $3,000-$3,800 price range.
Whatever table you may be gathering around this Holiday season with friends
and family, I wish for you Wonderful Moments
and
Bon Appetit !

For more information on French Antiques
visit my Blog Country French Antiques