A purchase of furniture from the past is a great way to add some flair to your house.
We carry a variety of exceptional antique furniture, and we have experts on hand to assist you in choosing something you’ll be happy with for a long time to be.
If you’re looking for a new item at an auction, on the internet or at a different retailer it is important to be aware of how to recognize the antique treasure.
Here’s what to keep in mind when purchasing antique furniture:
1. Make sure you check the construction
If you’re considering buying antique furniture You’ll want to be aware of how the furniture is put to each other.
You must be looking for indicators of quality workmanship.
Take a look in any drawers and examine your sides to see if there are dovetail joints. If you don’t find any, it’s likely that the pieces are joined by the current method of glue and nails.
If you detect dovetailing, this indicates that the item is made by hand.
If the joints appear to be perfect it is possible that the item was made by machine. A few small imperfections in the fittings could be an indicator of good quality.
Be sure that the frame is strong and sturdy. In the case of your chair is wobbly it could be necessary for the joints to be replaced or repaired.
2. Look for damage
However, the passage of time and inadequate maintenance can result in the deterioration of an antique.
You must thoroughly check the item before you hand the money.
First, make sure the antique for everything it is supposed to. Are there drawers that aren’t present? Do you see a gap that is supposed to have something?
The next step is to go through your work attentively.
Different kinds of furniture are prone to wear and tear in various places. For instance, furniture that is heavier could have been dragged more than lifted over time. They could also have been sitting in damp conditions, which could have caused the feet and legs to decay.
It could result in strain or damage to the furniture so be sure to examine the underside and feet of the furniture.
Look for evidence of woodworm. If you spot areas that have small holes all over the piece, it could be an indication of woodworm. Make sure that the piece is treated prior to taking it into your home as it may spread to furniture!
3. Look for replacements
If you’re looking to purchase old furniture you’re searching for an original piece.
This is a sign that there aren’t any modern additions. It could be because an old bolt was replaced with a brand new one, or a new drawer is installed.
Have handles been changed?
Be sure to check every item is an authentic antique.
4. Find the name
When you examine the item, you must be looking for a stamp, label or signature.
If you happen to find one, you may be able find out who designed the item.
It is also possible to look deeper into the background of the organization. The details of who, how, when, and when could be identified with a signature.
Be sure to check everywhere, but especially on the underside and back of the drawers, in front of the piece, and on the lower edges.
There may be something you find, but signatures and labels could also be counterfeited. Be sure to look for a similar amount of wear and tear on the label and then feel the label to see the if there’s any timeframe to it.
Stamps and labels begin to appear on furniture that was built in the 19th century, but don’t count on them appearing on earlier furniture.
If you think the item you’re looking at is older, then you must be aware of that.
5. Keep an eye out for replicas
The market for furniture that is antique has seen many fakes appearing on the market. Sometimes they appear exactly like the genuine thing!
To make sure that you’re purchasing authentic antique furniture, and not a knock-off you’ll need to pull your magnifying glass and conduct some thorough investigation.
Check your piece to see if it is showing wear or wear. If you notice a tiny bit scattered about, it might indicate an older item.
Also, check for dirt in corner drawers, which also indicate age.
You can still purchase a genuine item that you’ll love but be cautious.
When you are buying furniture that is antique Make sure you remember:
Purchase from trusted websites.
Shopping with a big company in the world of antiques is much more secure than buying from a shady dealer. Make sure you contact the sales team by asking them numerous questions that will make sure you are at ease. The dealers could be part of BADA or LAPADA this signifies that they are recognized as trustworthy and knowledgeable. Make sure to request lots of pictures and the more candid the more candid. It is always best to have more photos than having too small. The latter will help you get an picture of what flaws or damage could be.
Find customer reviews.
If you think you’ve discovered an item you like look up customer reviews and feedback about the retailer. If most customers are happy with the quality of service and product they purchased, then you will be too.
Ask to see the artwork.
If you are near enough to the place the location where the product is stored it is possible to inquire to inspect the item. It’s never a bad idea to inquire and it may calm your mind.
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