Chinese Side Table with Incised Aprons

Little scrolled brackets curl down from each corner of the apron, like a moustache that has been nicely waxed.

This side table with incised aprons comes from China and is contemporary, in oak. Its form borrows from classic Chinese furniture, in which a recessed apron and spandrel brackets are generally used to brace the legs while softening the line. The square top is framed by a broad molded edge around a flush central panel. Heavy rounded legs sit at the corners. Below the top, the aprons carry an incised outline that ends in carved scroll brackets on each leg. The oak is a warm honey tone. It is 26 inches long, 24 deep and 25 high.

Built for a lamp and a stack of mail, and quietly dignified about both.