A bentwood chair earns much of its character from the graceful curves of its frame. Those curves are the result of carefully steamed and shaped wood, often…
A heavy antique mirror can transform a room, adding depth, light, and a strong sense of history. Plaster walls, however, require more care than modern drywall.…
A bowfront chest is recognized first by its gently projecting front, which curves outward from side to side rather than remaining flat. That graceful contour…
White water rings are among the most common blemishes found on antique and vintage furniture. They usually appear as cloudy circles or pale patches after a…
The L. & J.G. Stickley mark is one of the most useful clues on American Arts and Crafts furniture, yet it is rarely enough to authenticate a piece by itself.…
Antique furniture names often describe an object’s original use, position, or relationship to another piece. That makes period terminology useful, but it can…
A vintage table can wobble for a surprisingly small reason. One missing shoe—the protective pad, socket, ferrule, or shaped foot attached to the bottom of a…
Before storefronts carried printed brand names, illuminated lettering, or digital displays, a carved object often told customers what a business sold. A wooden…
A loose caster can make an antique bed wobble, scrape across the floor, or shift whenever someone sits down. The problem may seem minor, yet a failing wheel or…
Rosewood has long been prized for its rich color, distinctive grain, and ability to take a beautiful polish. The name describes several tropical hardwoods…