Lane Furniture, a name synonymous with American craftsmanship, produced a stunning array of mid-century modern coffee tables that are now highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts. Their pieces, characterized by clean lines, elegant simplicity, and high-quality materials, represent a golden era of furniture design. This guide explores the allure of Lane mid-century modern coffee tables, delving into their characteristics, identifying key pieces, and offering advice for collectors.
What Makes Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables So Desirable?
Lane's success stemmed from their commitment to quality. Unlike many mass-produced pieces of the era, Lane furniture often featured solid wood construction, intricate joinery, and carefully selected veneers. This attention to detail resulted in pieces that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to last. Their mid-century modern designs, often featuring tapered legs, minimalist silhouettes, and the use of warm, natural wood tones, perfectly captured the spirit of the era. The combination of quality, style, and enduring design is what makes these coffee tables so collectible today.
Identifying Authentic Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables
Authenticating vintage furniture can be tricky, but several key features can help identify genuine Lane pieces:
- Construction: Examine the joinery. Lane often employed robust methods, such as dovetail joints, reflecting their dedication to quality craftsmanship.
- Materials: Look for the use of high-quality hardwoods like walnut, cherry, or oak. The wood's grain and finish can provide clues to authenticity.
- Hardware: Lane often used simple, elegant hardware, often brass or brushed nickel. Examine the quality and style of the hardware.
- Labels and Markings: While not always present, look for Lane's maker's marks or labels on the underside of the table. These can be crucial for verification.
- Style: Be aware of the prevalent design aesthetics of the mid-century modern period. Look for features such as tapered legs, minimalist forms, and clean lines.
What are some popular Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table Styles?
Lane produced a diverse range of coffee tables during its mid-century heyday. While pinpointing specific models without images is difficult, some common stylistic features included:
- Low Profile Tables: Characterized by their low height and often featuring a single, large surface area.
- Tables with Storage: Some Lane coffee tables incorporated drawers or shelves for additional storage, adding functionality to their minimalist design.
- Tables with Unique Base Designs: From simple tapered legs to more elaborate bases featuring geometric shapes, the base design varied widely across Lane's coffee table collection.
- Danish Modern Influences: Some Lane pieces clearly showed the influence of Danish Modern design, with emphasis on organic shapes and natural materials.
How can I find a Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table?
Finding a Lane mid-century modern coffee table requires patience and persistence. Here are some places to search:
- Antique Shops and Flea Markets: These are excellent sources for finding unique and well-preserved pieces.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Etsy, and Chairish offer a vast selection of vintage furniture, including Lane pieces.
- Estate Sales: Keep an eye out for local estate sales, as these can be treasure troves of vintage furniture.
- Auction Houses: Auction houses frequently feature high-quality vintage furniture, including desirable Lane pieces.
How much are Lane mid-century modern coffee tables worth?
The value of a Lane mid-century modern coffee table varies greatly depending on several factors:
- Rarity: Rare or unique models will command higher prices.
- Condition: Well-preserved pieces in excellent condition are more valuable.
- Materials: The type and quality of the wood used can affect the value.
- Demand: The current market demand for specific styles and models also plays a role in determining value.
How do I care for a Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table?
Proper care will help maintain the beauty and value of your Lane coffee table:
- Regular Dusting: Dust regularly using a soft cloth.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Protect from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the finish.
- Use Coasters and Placemats: Protect the surface from scratches and spills.
- Avoid Excessive Moisture: Avoid placing wet objects directly on the surface.
By understanding the characteristics of Lane mid-century modern coffee tables and where to find them, you can embark on a rewarding journey to discover a beautiful and enduring piece of furniture history. Happy hunting!
