Antique Harvest Tables
In strict terms, a harvest table is a narrow table that has hinged drop leaves. You'll see the term "harvest table" applied to other rather rustic farmhouse tables too, however. The harvest table has a European country look to it and makes it easy to see how sharing food around a table was such a staple of everyday life. Many people buy antique harvest tables in an effort to recreate the look of a kitchen table perfect for the communion of breaking bread together.
French antique harvest tables often have one or two drawers on the longer sides. This made them double easily as office desks. The straight legs on this type of table stand separately, rather than being beveled or being part of a trestle. Even though this table was more commonly used for writing and other types of home paperwork, it has inspired a resurgence in interest that has made it once again popular in modern homes.
If you would like to give your home the look and feel of the antique French country style, then an antique harvest table would be a great place to start. It's not that hard finding 19th century antique harvest tables, but finding earlier ones is far more difficult. Regardless, the antique harvest table has long been a gathering space for households and a common place in the home where people could share their stories as well as sharing food. Whether you choose the classic narrow, drop-leaf table (better for smaller kitchens and families) or the large farmhouse style antique harvest table, you're sure to have a beautiful addition to a warm and welcoming home.
