Butler's Table

Butler’s Table. Interior design by Andrew Maier

What is a butler’s table?

BUTLER’S TABLE:  A type of table with a removable tray that rests on top of a folding stand.  Believed to have originated in England in the mid-1700’s. In modern versions, sometimes the tray is fixed to the base. 

The name suggests the history.  Imagine a butler delivering a  tray topped with a tea service, the stand hooked on his arm, just in time for your afternoon cuppa.

Characteristics

Earlier tables had stands with two X-frames. Later tables sometimes had four legs joined by an X-frame.  
The tray can be rectangular or oval, but should have slots that function as handholds.

The common Chippendale style has a rectangular center with hinged sides that form an oval when the hinges are extended.

Chippendale style butler’s table

1910 English Sheffield Silver Plate Butlers Fitted Tray Table Stand

Antiquing tip: check carefully to be sure the entire piece is an antique. Sometimes an antique 18th or 19th century tray is attached to a newly made stand.  

Comtemporary examples

Interior design by Jonathan Adler

Photo credits: First photo   Chippendale style collage  c.1910 table from Ebay. Table used as bar cart from Design Sponge.  Jonathan Adler design from House Beautiful  Coffee table height via West Elm  Library photo.