How To Tell The Age Of Antique Furniture

Antique furniture is a great addition to any home. It adds character and history to the space. However, it is important to know how to tell the age of antique furniture to ensure that you are getting your money’s worth. In this article, I will share my personal experience and provide a guide on how to tell the age of antique furniture.

My Personal Experience

As an antique furniture enthusiast, I have learned a lot about how to tell the age of antique furniture. I have made mistakes in the past and have learned from them. One of the biggest mistakes I made was assuming that just because a piece of furniture looked old, it was antique. I later found out that some furniture manufacturers intentionally make their pieces look old to appeal to buyers.

Another mistake I made was not checking the construction of the furniture. I once bought a piece of furniture that looked antique, but upon closer inspection, I realized that it was made with modern materials. I was disappointed and learned to always check the construction before buying.

How To Tell The Age Of Antique Furniture

Step by Step Guide

1. Check for dovetail joints. Dovetail joints were commonly used in furniture made before the 1950s.

2. Look for signs of wear and tear. Antique furniture will have signs of wear and tear, such as scratches and dents.

3. Check the construction. Antique furniture will have construction methods that are not commonly used today, such as handcrafted joints.

4. Look for labels or markings. Some antique furniture will have labels or markings that indicate the manufacturer or the date it was made.

5. Examine the hardware. Antique furniture will have hardware that is not commonly used today, such as brass or iron.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Research the manufacturer or time period the furniture was made in.

2. Learn about the construction methods used during the time period the furniture was made.

3. Look for furniture that has been well-preserved.

4. Check for authenticity by having a professional appraiser examine the furniture.

5. Be wary of furniture that has been refinished or restored.

6. Look for furniture that has a history or story behind it.

7. Check for any repairs that have been made to the furniture.

8. Look for furniture that has unique features or designs.

9. Consider the condition of the furniture before making a purchase.

10. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and do your research before making a purchase.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Antique furniture adds character and history to a space.
• It can be a great investment if purchased at the right price.
• Antique furniture is often made with high-quality materials and construction methods.

Cons:

• Antique furniture can be expensive.
• It can be difficult to determine the authenticity of antique furniture.
• Antique furniture requires special care and maintenance.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I would highly recommend investing in antique furniture. However, it is important to do your research and know how to tell the age of antique furniture. I suggest starting with smaller pieces and working your way up to larger pieces. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek the advice of professionals. With the right knowledge and precautions, antique furniture can be a wonderful addition to any home.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: What is considered antique furniture?

A: Furniture that is over 100 years old is considered antique.

Q: How can I tell if an antique piece of furniture has been refinished?

A: Look for signs of sanding, uneven color, or a lack of patina.

Q: How do I care for antique furniture?

A: Avoid using harsh chemicals and keep the furniture away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Dust and polish the furniture regularly.