French Country · Encyclopedia · Antique Furniture and Seating
Console Table
A narrow wall table for entryways, sometimes wall-mounted in Louis XV style.
Tables & Consoles · Indicative US retail $400–$7,000
At a glance
- Family: Tables & Consoles
- Periods most often found: Period Louis XV and XVI consoles date from 1730 to 1790; Empire from 1800 to 1820; revivals from 1850 to 1930.
- Typical price: about $1,500; range $400 to $7,000 and more for exceptional pieces
- What drives value: Giltwood, marble, carving
What it is
The console table is a narrow table set against a wall, made to stand under a mirror between two windows. The 18th-century Louis XV console was often fixed to the wall, with a carved and gilded base of two scrolling legs and a marble top; Louis XVI consoles stand on four fluted legs joined by a stretcher; Empire consoles have columns and a mirrored back. The demi-lune (half-moon) console is a semicircular variant, and provincial consoles in walnut or oak are simpler.
How to identify and date it
Carved giltwood consoles should show gesso and bole under worn gold; check for regilding, repainting, replaced marble and losses to carving. Wall-mounted consoles have only two legs and need a secure fixing. A marble top should fit the shaped rim exactly. Pairs of consoles are prized.
Periods and styles
Period Louis XV and XVI consoles date from 1730 to 1790; Empire from 1800 to 1820; revivals from 1850 to 1930.
How much is it worth?
On the US retail market, most console table examples ask around $1,500. Simple or worn pieces start near $400, while documented, signed or exceptional examples can pass $7,000. The main value drivers are: giltwood, marble, carving. These are indicative ranges, not an appraisal; see our price guide for French antiques for the method.
Before you buy
- Check gilding
- Inspect marble
- Check stability and wall fixing
- Measure depth for a hallway
Living with it
A console under a mirror in an entry, with a pair of lamps and a bowl for keys, is the classic French welcome.
How we write these guides: identification notes are general guidance written by French Country; a style name, a region or a resemblance does not by itself date or attribute a piece. Price ranges are indicative US retail asking prices for antique and vintage examples in sound condition (dealers, specialist marketplaces and auctions), estimated and rounded as of November 2026; check recent sold results before relying on a figure. They are not appraisals or offers to buy or sell: condition, provenance and documentation can move a value far outside the range. For insurance, estates or sales, ask an independent, qualified appraiser for a written valuation.