Lane Furniture, a name synonymous with American craftsmanship, produced a stunning array of mid-century modern coffee tables. Their designs, often characterized by clean lines, tapered legs, and the use of quality materials like walnut and mahogany, remain highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts today. This guide delves into the world of Lane mid-century modern coffee tables, exploring their history, identifying key features, and offering advice for discerning collectors.
What Makes a Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table Unique?
Lane's mid-century modern coffee tables stand out due to several key characteristics. Their commitment to quality is evident in the robust construction and the meticulous attention to detail. Many pieces feature:
- Tapered Legs: A defining feature of mid-century modern design, Lane's tapered legs often incorporate subtle curves or angles, adding visual interest.
- Simple, Elegant Shapes: Avoidance of excessive ornamentation, favoring clean lines and understated elegance.
- High-Quality Wood: The use of premium hardwoods such as walnut and mahogany, contributing to the tables' durability and rich aesthetic appeal.
- Unique Hardware: While not always present, some Lane coffee tables feature distinctive hardware, adding to their collectible value.
- Inlays and Veneers: Intricate wood inlays or veneers are occasionally seen, adding to the complexity and beauty of the piece.
Identifying Authentic Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables
Determining authenticity is crucial when collecting Lane furniture. While there are many reproductions on the market, several characteristics can help you distinguish genuine Lane pieces:
- Maker's Marks: Look for Lane's maker's mark, typically found on the underside of the table. The mark might vary slightly depending on the era of production.
- Construction Quality: Authentic Lane pieces exhibit superior craftsmanship. Examine the joinery, the finish, and the overall solidity of the table. Poor quality construction is a strong indicator of a reproduction.
- Wood Grain: Authentic Lane tables often showcase beautiful, consistent wood grain patterns indicative of high-quality materials.
What are some popular Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table styles?
Lane's output was diverse, encompassing various styles within the mid-century modern aesthetic. Specific models and their distinctive features are often sought after by collectors. Unfortunately, precise model identification requires a thorough examination of the piece and may necessitate consultation with a furniture expert or referring to vintage catalogs.
How much are Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables worth?
The value of a Lane mid-century modern coffee table depends on several factors, including the specific model, its condition, its rarity, and current market demand. Condition is paramount; pristine, unrestored pieces command higher prices. Rarity also plays a significant role; unique or less-common designs will be more valuable. Online auction sites and antique dealer listings can offer insights into current market values, but professional appraisal is always recommended for accurate valuation.
Where can I find Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables?
Discovering authentic Lane mid-century modern coffee tables requires diligent searching. Potential sources include:
- Antique Shops and Flea Markets: These are excellent places to uncover hidden gems, though careful examination is essential.
- Online Auction Sites: Platforms like eBay and LiveAuctioneers often feature Lane pieces, but buyer beware—thorough vetting is crucial to avoid reproductions.
- Estate Sales: Estate sales can present opportunities to find well-preserved Lane furniture.
- Antique Dealers: Specializing in mid-century modern furniture can provide expertise and access to rare pieces.
Are Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables a good investment?
Investing in Lane mid-century modern coffee tables can be rewarding for several reasons. Their enduring design appeal, coupled with their quality construction, makes them desirable pieces. As with any collectible, value can fluctuate; however, well-maintained Lane tables frequently appreciate over time, making them a potentially sound investment for passionate collectors.
This guide offers a starting point for your exploration of Lane mid-century modern coffee tables. Remember, thorough research and careful examination are crucial when acquiring these beautiful and valuable pieces. Happy hunting!
