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How do you identify Colonial furniture?
1 Answer
To identify Colonial furniture, first look the piece over from top to bottom. If you see any maker's marks, conduct research using trusted online resources to find out who produced your item and when the maker was in business. Pieces made in the USA between the mid-16th and mid-17th centuries are usually classified as Colonial. Should you be unable to locate a marking, the materials and style can provide clues.
Most Colonial furniture was made of pine, elm, oak, mahogany or walnut wood. During the period, furniture tended to be simple overall, but it did include a few flourishes, such as turned cabriole legs. Because Colonial furniture was handcrafted, furnishings produced during the era usually have visible tool marks and slight irregularities in their carvings. Because there are numerous reproductions of Colonial pieces, you may wish to seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer.
On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Colonial furniture.
Most Colonial furniture was made of pine, elm, oak, mahogany or walnut wood. During the period, furniture tended to be simple overall, but it did include a few flourishes, such as turned cabriole legs. Because Colonial furniture was handcrafted, furnishings produced during the era usually have visible tool marks and slight irregularities in their carvings. Because there are numerous reproductions of Colonial pieces, you may wish to seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer.
On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Colonial furniture.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
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Shop for American Colonial Furniture on 1stDibs
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Dimensions:
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Category
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Materials
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Category
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David T Smith Early American Style Curly Maple 4 Poster Queen Bed Frame
Located in Dayton, OH
Vintage David T Smith early American style four post queen bed frame. Made of curly maple featuring traditional form with tapered and chamfered posts and high rails. Signed in 1995...
Category
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The Mountain Man Bronze Sculpture by Federic Remington
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Category
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Materials
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Palecek Soleil Cross Stool in Seagrass
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Plantation hardwood frame and legs with seat woven in natural seagrass fibers in a slip stitch pattern. Legs wrapped with natural seagrass ropes.
Mid-Century, Hollywood Regency, Ar...
Category
1990s Philippine American Colonial Furniture
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American Colonial Cherry Drop-Down Desk by Maddox
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Original Vintage Condition
Materials: Cherry, Brass Pulls
Dimensions:
39.25”H x 36”W x 19.25”D
Table Height 28"
Category
Vintage 1950s American American Colonial Desks
Materials
Brass
