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Determining the age and historical significance of antiques is a primary factor in determining their value. Generally, items with historical ties or that are older tend to be more valuable. Although this isn’t essential, ageing items can be a great learning opportunity for antique enthusiasts, as they can help you understand their significance for the period.
Examine the construction techniques
A key way to recognise the time in which an antique, such as a chest of drawers, was manufactured is the craftsmanship behind it. Look out for hand-cut dovetail joints vs machine-cut joints. A dovetail joint is a woodworking joint where interlocking ‘pins’ and ‘tails’, or wedge-shaped projections, are used to connect two pieces of wood.
This creates a strong and stylish binding that resists being pulled apart. More modern pieces will rely heavily on nails, screws and adhesive to secure the pieces together. While some modern pieces still incorporate an interlocking method, they will still depend on the adhesive itself for durability.
Identify potential period styles
Each significant period has its traits to look out for; here are just a few of the key ones:
- Georgian - The Georgian’s prioritised elegance, attention to detail, symmetry and classical architectural elements. You’ll often see elements like columns and pediments included within the design of these pieces, as well as intricate carvings, inlay and elegant ornamentation.
- Victorian - Victorian furniture is distinguished by its ornate details, dark wood, and heavy proportions. These pieces reflect a sense of opulence and grandeur, featuring elaborate carvings, curved lines, and luxurious materials, such as velvet.
- Edwardian - The Edwardian era featured a much lighter aesthetic compared to the Victorian era, characterised by light-coloured woods like maple and birch, and incorporating more feminine lines and curves. It took influence from Art Nouveau and Japanese art, which made the designs more floral and nature-inspired.
Look for telltale materials and finishes
Materials vary across periods, so determining the type of wood used can be a crucial element in dating an antique chest of drawers. In the 18th century, they often created furniture using walnut due to its beautiful colour, fine grain and strength.
Later Georgian or Victorian artisans favoured mahogany, due to its strength and resistance to wear and tear.
It is also important to note the different surface treatments, such as French polish, wax or paint, as these can be key indicators of their age.
Check for maker’s marks or labels
Antiques often come with branded stamps, handwritten labels, or paper trade labels that can provide dating clues. Make sure to check the back of drawers, inside the carcass and underneath the base, as these were often the chosen hiding places for these markings. Not all pieces will have visible markings, but it’s vital to check just in case they do.
Learn the history of your antiques
It’s essential to understand the origins of your antiques, after all, each piece holds a story and a wealth of history, so why not try to unlock it? In this blog, we have covered just a few easy ways to help you date an antique chest of drawers, or any furniture for that matter.
