Mahogany occupies a special place in the history of Georgian furniture. Its rich reddish-brown color, straight grain, dependable strength, and ability to…
Moving a heavy antique armoire safely requires more than strength. These tall cabinets often combine dense hardwood, delicate veneers, hand-cut joints,…
A broken drawer bottom can make an otherwise sound antique chest, desk, or dresser difficult to use. The panel may have split along the grain, fallen out of…
Before the modern fitted kitchen, household work depended on movable furniture, careful organization, and considerable physical effort. The Hoosier cabinet…
A 19th-century secretary desk can carry several visual histories at once. Its walnut, mahogany, oak, or maple may have been coated at the time of manufacture,…
Water rings are among the most common blemishes found on antique and vintage furniture. A cold glass, damp flowerpot, warm serving dish, or recently cleaned…
A mid-century modern dining chair can bring remarkable character to a room, but attractive lines are only part of the decision. The best examples balance…
French polishing is a traditional method of finishing wood with thin layers of shellac applied through a lubricated rubbing pad. The process produces a deep,…
A sideboard can reveal its age through much more than its overall appearance. The wood, proportions, carving, hardware, finish, and construction methods all…
A chipped porcelain handle can make an otherwise beautiful vintage dresser look neglected, but a small defect does not always call for complete replacement.…