Furniture
Antique furniture is one of the most collected categories, valued for both function and artistry. Pieces range from rustic early American farmhouse tables to ornate French Louis XV commodes. Construction methods, wood species, and original hardware are the primary indicators of age and authenticity.
What to Look For
- ●Hand-cut dovetail joints rather than machine-cut, indicating pre-1860s construction
- ●Original patina and surface wear consistent with the piece's claimed age
- ●Maker's marks, labels, or stamps on the underside, back panels, or inside drawers
- ●Solid wood construction with period-appropriate species such as walnut, mahogany, or tiger maple
- ●Hand-forged or early cast hardware with signs of genuine age and oxidation
What Affects Value
- 💰Provenance and documented ownership history linking the piece to notable estates or makers
- 💰Condition of original finish, with untouched surfaces often worth more than refinished ones
- 💰Rarity of the form, such as unusual regional variations or limited-production designs
- 💰Quality of craftsmanship including carving detail, inlay work, and proportional balance
- 💰Completeness of the piece with all original components including hardware, keys, and shelves
Common Reproductions & Fakes
- ⚠Colonial Revival pieces from the 1920s-1940s that mimic 18th-century American styles using machine-cut joints
- ⚠Centennial reproductions made around 1876 that closely copy Chippendale and Queen Anne forms
- ⚠Modern Indonesian and Chinese imports styled to look like European antiques with artificial distressing
- ⚠Marriages where tops and bases from different pieces are combined to create a seemingly complete antique
Collecting Tips
- ✓Always examine the back and underside of furniture where original tool marks and unfinished wood reveal true age
- ✓Beware of pieces that look uniformly aged, as genuine antiques show uneven wear in high-use areas
- ✓Research regional furniture traditions since a piece's origin significantly affects its market value
- ✓Get a professional appraisal before investing in high-value case pieces like highboys, secretaries, and tall clocks
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my furniture is a genuine antique or a reproduction?
Examine the joinery first. Hand-cut dovetails are irregular and slightly uneven, while machine-cut dovetails are perfectly uniform. Check for saw marks on unfinished surfaces: circular saw marks indicate post-1830s manufacture, while straight saw marks suggest earlier production. Also look for genuine patina buildup in crevices and natural wear patterns on feet, edges, and handles.
Does refinishing antique furniture decrease its value?
In most cases, yes. Collectors and dealers strongly prefer original finishes, even if worn or damaged. A piece with its original surface can be worth two to five times more than an identical refinished example. If the finish is severely damaged, consult an appraiser before making any changes, as professional conservation is preferable to stripping and refinishing.
What types of antique furniture are most valuable right now?
Mid-century modern pieces by designers like Charles Eames, George Nakashima, and Hans Wegner remain in high demand. Among traditional antiques, 18th-century American furniture, especially pieces with documented provenance, commands strong prices. Brown furniture from the Victorian era has declined in value over recent decades, though exceptional examples still sell well.
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