Antique Original
Posted in Antiques on 12/22/2007 04:14 am by admin
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Determining If A Piece of Furniture is a Valuable Antique
Antique furniture values generally always appreciate. Why is this? Mainly, it is because of the combination that antique furniture is made of solid wood and it has such beautiful craftsmanship. The furniture we see today is not built like it was over 100 years ago; therefore, it is not as valuable.
Identifying and Valuing Antique Furniture
Antique furniture can be separated into four geographic categories. These include:
* English - Divided into Victorian or Pre-Victorian
* European - Generally French or German
* American - Described as Shaker, New York, or Western
* Far Eastern: Usually Chinese - determined by the period or manufacture date
English antique furniture is sub-categorized by the rulers during that time period. For example; Georgian (1714-1812), Regency (1812-1830), Victorian (1837-1901), and Edwardian (1901-1910).
French furniture is classified based on the rule of King Louis. These include: Louis XIV (1643-1715), Louis XV (1723-1774), and Louis Phillpe (1830-1848).
American furniture that was popular back in the 17th and 18th century include: William and Mary (1690-1725), Queen Anne (1725-1750), Chippendale (1750-1780), Federal (1790-1815), Classical (1815-1845), Empire (1815-1845), and Country and Shaker (1690-1900).
Antique furniture values determined by:
--Type of Wood--
The most valuable types of antique wood are mahogany, walnut, oak, and pine.
--Wood Panels and Original Hardware--
A piece with the original hardware and wood panels is more valuable. A repaired piece will have a lowered value.
--Condition--
The condition of an antique is important when trying to determine antique furniture values. While an antique that is in "mint" condition is much more valuable than one with some scratches, if you try to repair the scratches, then you will devalue the piece. An antique item with scratches on the finish is much more valuable than one you try to repair to make in better condition.
Leave an imperfect piece of furniture as it is. Never strip and refinish an antique or re-attach a wobbly leg, this may affect it's authenticity. A change in the piece's finish or method of fastening may seem an improvement to you but may question the age of the piece to another.
-- Rarity--
This is one of the biggest factors for determining antique furniture values. The fewer items there are of a particular antique, the more valuable the antique is likely to be. This is not always going to be true; however, it is something to use as a basis when trying to determine a value.
--Demand --
Demand is a large factor for antique worth. A rare antique is not worth as much if no one wants it.
Authenticating Antique Furniture
Unfortunately, there are many scammers out there trying to take advantage of those new to antiquing. Protect yourself from becoming a victim. Learn some basic things to look for before you make that purchase. If you are not completely comfortable making the decision, contact an antique expert to help you.
Once you determine what type of furniture you are interested in, you will want to ensure the piece you have is authentic. Here are some two sure signs to look for:
1. Aging signs. Original wood changes over time. Look for signs of shrinking, cracking, warping and fading.
2. Check for imperfections. There should be some ragged edges, slanted lines in the screws, and uneven boards. This is because an antique is made by hand. If you see things are perfect, then this indicates the furniture was made with power tools, which indicates the furniture is not antique. Power tools were not around 100 years ago.
Antiquing can be a rewarding hobby if you take the time to familiarize yourself with each type of antique.
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