Finding the age of a wooden piece of furniture can be difficult, especially if you are unfamiliar with the particular design or era in which it was made. The age of a piece of furniture can be determined by a number of indicators, though.
Here are a few of the most popular techniques:
Style:
A piece of furniture's style can reveal crucial hints about its age. You can get a general idea of when a piece of furniture was made by identifying the style because different furniture designs were popular during particular time periods. For instance, Victorian furniture (1837–1901) frequently has elaborate details, whereas Art Deco furniture (1920–1930) is typically more streamlined and contemporary.
Construction:
A piece of furniture's construction can also reveal information about its age. Look for details like machine-cut joints and dovetail joints, which were more common in the 20th century than they were in the 18th and 19th. Given that particular woods were more prevalent at particular times in history, the type of wood used can also serve as an indicator of age.
Hardware:
A piece of furniture's hardware can also reveal information about its age. As an illustration, brass hardware enjoyed popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries while chrome hardware gained popularity in the 20th. Take note of particulars like the presence of screws, which were not frequently used in furniture until the late 18th century.
Patina:
A piece of furniture's patina can also reveal information about its age. Wood ages naturally over time, developing a patina that gives it a distinct color and texture. Look for wear and tear indicators like dents and scratches, which can also reveal the age of a piece.
Provenance:
The history of a piece of furniture, including its previous owners and locations, is referred to as its provenance. You might be able to estimate a piece of furniture's age based on the known history of the item if you can trace its provenance back several generations.
Conclusion:
It can be difficult to determine the age of a wooden piece of furniture, but by observing the style, construction, hardware, patina, and provenance, you can get a general idea of when the item was created. Consider speaking with a certified appraiser or antique dealer who can offer knowledgeable counsel and insights if you are still unsure.