It looks like it has two or three kinds of wood. Do you know what they are? Could you post some close ups of the various wood pieces the size of a dinner plate?

It depends on whether you want to restore it to it's original look, or give it a whole new look. Either way, the old finish is in such bad shape that I think it will require some sanding.

It would be nice to see how the top looks once it's sanded. If the wood looks nice, I would leave it natural and put a protective top coat.

Sanding the legs of the table will be a pain. Maybe you could paint the bottom of the table?

I think it just depends upon what it looks like once the top is sanded. If it looks good, I would be tempted to just used some liquid stripper + a metal scraper (specifically used to strip finish off - I don't know what the specific name is of the tool) + some sandpaper to strip the finish off of the legs + the rest of the bottom of the table.

I don't know how large the table is - it looks a lot like a writing desk that I have in my office (I have two desks - I keep my writing desk clear for when I need to concentrate on drafting a document or revising one sent from opposing counsel - it's nice to have a completely cleared off space to work!)

Here are some closer pics of it. the top looks to be one piece with a decorative groove. it looks like it was stained different colors in the individual sections of it. its 44 x18 inches. I like the idea of sanding and stripping to see how that looks. thank you

Thanks for photos. I agree that it looks like one piece that has been stained in different sections. It might be mahogany- easier to identify once it has been stripped and sanded. Nice table with graceful design. Do you have some experience with refinishing?

Please post an update when you are ready.

I just found a similar table on etsy in better shape than mine. If this one is mahogany then you are right, mine must he as well. yes i do have experience refinishing. I really like finding old discarded ”treasures” and bringing them back.