Watch out for adaptations made to special-purpose furniture
3:55 PM | Posted by
antiquefurniture
From the Orlando Sentinel:
Once those specialized pieces were no longer needed, they were modified to disguise their original use. These modifications lower their value to collectors.
Municipal water plants that sent running water into the house were not common in the United States until the 20th century. So instead of flush toilets, people used a large bowl known as a potty or "thunder mug." The well-to-do sometimes had furniture made to conceal the bowl or to make it easier to use.
Once those specialized pieces were no longer needed, they were modified to disguise their original use. These modifications lower their value to collectors.
The resulting pieces have been altered and restored so much, they are of lower value than they would be in original condition. Examine furniture carefully, especially from the bottom, to find signs of changes, such as extra nail holes or unusual patterns of darkening wood.
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2 comments:
So right you are! Too many times in the antiques business,there lurks a demon who will try to sell a cobbler or doctored-up piece of antique furniture without pointing it out to the unaware client. Besides this, sometimes the prices are as if it was the authentic thing. Not a good reflection on antique dealers! One bad apple spoils the lot. Consequently some people associate all dealers to be the same which is definitely not the case.
Especially today that the so-called "Shabby Chic" Trend is here leads some people to look at old cobbler or made-up pieces mixed with reproduction not labeled properly - all of which is found in some so-called Antique Shops - is not not ethical especially when the store hangs its shingle ANTIQUE SHOP and is filled 50%-80% of this stuff.
Sold as decorative at fair market prices with proper descriptions is acceptable but not in an Antique Shop that caters to 80% of this stuff. The unaware buyer may easily think "Great Antiques!" simply because it is found in a so-called Antique Store.
Deal with reputable dealers who label things properly and are willing to give clear information on the item should the client request more information.
Of course if one is venturing into thousands of dollars, he or she should begin to buy good books about antique furniture and other objects of interest. And speak with quality dealers who usually authenticate or backup information.
Talk openly with the dealer. If he has ease with his merchandise you will automatically feel comfortable as to whether or not he is imparting proper information .