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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How do you tell the difference between antique and reproduction furniture?

1 Answer
How do you tell the difference between antique and reproduction furniture?
To tell the difference between antique and reproduction furniture, first look at hidden areas, such as the backs or insides of the drawers. On reproduction furniture, you may find plywood or engineered wood in these areas, while antique furniture will usually have solid hardwood on drawer interiors and backs. Also, slight irregularities and marks indicating that the furniture was built with hand tools rather than machines usually suggest that the piece is antique. Because it can be difficult to differentiate reproductions from genuine antiques without expertise and training, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer about the age of your piece. Find a diverse assortment of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
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Office Chair, International Style Leather Office Chair
Located in İstanbul, İstanbul
Darwin added wheels to the office chair in 19th century. In the 1970s ergonomics was added to design criteria. Today, it is the key element for whom spends long hours in the office. ...
Category

2010s Turkish International Style Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Leather

Office Chair, International Style Leather Office Chair
Located in İstanbul, İstanbul
Darwin added wheels to the office chair in 19th century. In the 1970s ergonomics was added to design criteria. Today, it is the key element for whom spends long hours in the office...
Category

2010s Turkish International Style Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Leather

White Surfer Bookcase, Bookshelves, Design object
Located in İstanbul, İstanbul
"Add a Touch of Contemporary Artistry to Your Space with the White Surfer Bookcase Bookshelves Design Object Elevate your interior decor with the White...
Category

2010s Turkish Bookcases

Materials

Oak

Office Chair, International Style Wooden Office Chair
Located in İstanbul, İstanbul
Darwin added wheels to the office chair in 19th century. In the 1970s ergonomics was added to design criteria. Today, it is the key element for whom sp...
Category

2010s Turkish International Style Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Leather, Oak, Walnut

1950s Pair of Italian Sconces in Brass with Opaline Glass Globes
Located in Rome, IT
Pair of Italian wall sconces from the 1950s, featuring a sculptural brass structure with curved arms supporting spherical opaline glass diffusers. The brass shows attractive oxidatio...
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Swedish Pine Wood Table Lamps by Markslöjd, Sweden, 1980s
Located in Værløse, DK
Set of Swedish Modern Pine Wood Desk Lamps made by Markslöjd in the 1980s. * Set (2) of table lamp in turned pine wood with white fabric shades. * Manufacturer: Markslöjd, Sweden * ...
Category

Vintage 1980s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Wood, Pine

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