Very sad set of nesting tables/stools  

I picked up this set of nesting tables recently because they were almost free and I thought there was something appealing about them. I didn't realize how sad a state they were in until I got them home, and now I'm wondering if they can be restored, and if so, if it's worth the time to do it. It appears that they were originally painted a very bright yellow, but have been painted over, poorly, in black. Some of the overspray is unfortunately on the woven tops (I'm not sure if this is jute or papercord or something else.) Any thoughts on the possibility of restoring them? Lastly, can anyone tell me how these were used? Are they supposed to be for seating, or as tables? They don't seem particularly well suited to either function. Thanks so much!