By Benedict Smythe
The aesthetic value of antique furniture pieces is one of the
reasons why many antique collectors prefer these items. There is
a wide variety of styles and era to choose from. Antique
collectors have, in some ways, mastered the skills in knowing
what a good buy is, but as novice, you may need more time and
experience.
If you plan to buy antique furniture piece to add glamour to
your home, be on the lookout for reproductions. The following
helpful information will guide you on the basics of buying
authentic and practical antique furniture.
Observe the dimensions. Authentic antique furniture does not
have uniform dimensions since wood, which most antique furniture
are made of, shrinks with age. Otherwise, there is a strong
possibility that what you are eyeing for is not genuine at all.
To clearly see the various angles of furniture, take the time to
view it in broad daylight.
Test the solidity of the item. Antique furniture has no real
value if it loses its functionality. What use is an authentic
antique chair when you cannot actually sit on it? Antique shops
allow buyers to sit or move items for verification. Antique
experts also suggest this method.
Make sure that parts are available. Good quality antique
furniture has complete functional or decorative parts as well.
Look for proof of antiquity. Since the age of an antique is one
of the major determinants of authenticity, you should have the
assurance that the item for sale passed the age definition of an
antique which is at least a hundred years old. One way to verify
this is to look for signs of depreciation in the item such as
dust accumulation in its corners which are hard to reach by
regular dusting. If these simple signs are not available,
experts say, the item might not be as old as an antique should
be. You must also consider whether a piece of furniture has been
restored or refinished. Restoration on antique pieces may
decrease the value of the item especially if done poorly.
Examine the surface colour. The surface finish of a piece of
antique furniture is also a significant detail to observe. A
quality piece of antique furniture should show flat colouring
except for some shades which might have naturally occur due to
age. The back side of a piece may differ in appearance with the
surface but it should have unvaried shades as well.
Interview the antique shop owner. You will get more details
through a one on one interview with the shop owner. Ask about
the era and style of the furniture which you may later research
on to be more familiar with the item. You may also request for a
warranty of the item.
Consider antique restoration. While some would no longer
consider unstable antique furniture, you may choose to have the
item restored to its former glory through the help of a
professional antique restorer.
Antique restoration is the art of restoring an antique to its
natural appearance with the purpose of making it appear new. In
some cases, antique restoration refers to the process of
restoring an antique for preservation or conservation of its
features to avoid more wear and tear.
Get a second opinion. If you are hesitant about the value of
your target antique piece of furniture, you may hire the
expertise of antique experts. What’s more, you may also have the
furniture appraised to determine its actual value.
About the Author: Driscolls Antiques is a leading supplier of
quality antiques and antique furniture. Benedict Yossarian is a
freelance Internet Marketing Consultant that can help maximize
your exposure online. www.driscollsantiques.co.uk/
yossarian.co.uk/
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link:
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