Lane Furniture, a name synonymous with American craftsmanship and mid-century modern design, produced a stunning array of coffee tables that remain highly sought-after by collectors and design enthusiasts today. Their pieces, characterized by clean lines, elegant simplicity, and high-quality materials, represent a golden age of furniture design. This guide delves into the world of Lane mid-century modern coffee tables, exploring their distinctive features, identifying popular models, and providing advice for discerning collectors.
What Makes Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables Unique?
Lane's mid-century coffee tables stand out due to a combination of factors:
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Quality Construction: Lane was known for its commitment to using high-quality materials and employing skilled craftsmanship. Their tables often feature solid wood construction, durable veneers, and sturdy joinery, ensuring longevity and enduring appeal.
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Distinctive Styles: While adhering to the overall mid-century modern aesthetic, Lane offered a variety of styles within their coffee table collection. You'll find pieces with tapered legs, sleek rectangular tops, minimalist designs, and even some incorporating unique details like inlaid wood or brass accents.
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Iconic Designs: Several Lane coffee table designs have achieved iconic status, becoming instantly recognizable to collectors and enthusiasts. These designs often incorporate elements that define the mid-century modern style, such as clean lines, geometric shapes, and a focus on functionality.
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Collectibility: Due to their quality, style, and limited production runs, Lane mid-century modern coffee tables have become highly collectible items. Their value continues to appreciate, making them a smart investment for design aficionados.
Identifying Popular Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table Models
Pinpointing the exact model of a Lane coffee table can sometimes be challenging, as detailed records aren't always readily available. However, some key features can help with identification:
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Look for Maker's Marks: Examine the underside of the table for any markings, stamps, or labels that indicate the manufacturer and potentially the model number.
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Examine the Construction: Pay close attention to the wood type, joinery techniques, and any unique design elements. These details can help narrow down the possibilities.
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Research Online: Utilize online resources like auction sites, antique databases, and design blogs to compare your table to known Lane models. Images and descriptions can be invaluable in the identification process.
How to Care for Your Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table
Proper care ensures your Lane coffee table remains a cherished piece for generations to come:
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Regular Dusting: Regularly dust your table with a soft cloth to prevent dust buildup.
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Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials that could damage the finish. A gentle wood cleaner is recommended for occasional deep cleaning.
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Protect the Surface: Use coasters and placemats to protect the tabletop from scratches and water damage.
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Address Minor Damage Promptly: Address any minor scratches or blemishes promptly to prevent further damage. Wood fillers and touch-up pens can be used for minor repairs.
How Much Are Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables Worth?
The value of a Lane mid-century modern coffee table varies significantly depending on several factors, including:
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Model and Rarity: Rare and highly sought-after models command higher prices.
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Condition: Tables in excellent original condition will generally fetch more than those that have been repaired or restored.
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Market Demand: The current market demand for mid-century modern furniture plays a significant role in determining value.
Where Can I Find Lane Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables?
You can find Lane mid-century modern coffee tables in a variety of places:
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Antique Shops and Flea Markets: These are great places to discover hidden gems at potentially lower prices.
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Online Auction Sites: Online auction sites offer a wide selection of Lane coffee tables, allowing you to compare prices and browse from various locations.
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Estate Sales: Estate sales often include furniture from previous generations, offering potential opportunities to find well-preserved Lane pieces.
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Antique Malls: Antique malls aggregate various dealers, providing a wider selection in one location.
This guide provides a starting point for your journey into the world of Lane mid-century modern coffee tables. Happy hunting!
