A sideboard is a side or serving table, also known as a buffet. It would sit along the wall of a dining room adjacent to the dining table.  Sideboards could be used for serving food, for displaying serving dishes and for storage. Sideboards usually have a set of cabinets or one of more drawers.

 

Fruitwood comes from fruit-bearing tress such as apple, cherry and pear.  It was in abundant supply and far less expensive for creating provincial furniture than the fine woods used in the cities.  Fruitwood is a moderately hard wood, with a fine grain and unique light, warm coloring.