Furniture
...to find product in original condition and not refinished but, on occasion a piece will be to
weathered to salvage and need refinishing. When this occurs we do it all by hand in our shop keep with
timeless traditions of sanding and finishing.
In the world of furniture, the words VINTAGE and ANTIQUE are sometimes used almost interchangeably,
though this is not the correct way to use them. In fact, they are two separate and completely different
terms used to describe age and quality. It is important to know the difference so that you get what you
are looking for when you look for vintage or antique furniture.
The word VINTAGE brings up a number of images when attached to furniture. The first and most
obvious is one of age because this is a partially correct application of the word. It also brings up images
attached to bellbottoms, vinyl records and generally things that have been out of the mainstream for
some time. While this is society’s definition of the word, it is not an entirely accurate true of the word.
The word “vintage” is properly defined as something of high quality that demonstrates styles of the
past. Because of the use that society has put on the word vintage, it is important to note that the word
applies to much more than just something you can find in your grandma's attic. Vintage furniture
applies to many types of furniture, the most important qualities being those that show age and high
attention to detail.
ANTIQUE FURNITURE is another thing entirely. The correct definition of ANTIQUE FURNITURE is that it
is made at least one hundred years before it is purchased. Often times when you do arrive at ANTIQUE
shop, you will see items that are only 50 to 60 years old. This is because of the large industry that has
grown up around ANTIQUE FURNITURE. Many people have come to realize that ANTIQUE FURNTURE is
made with a high enough quality to last over 20 years long then its’ new age counterpart.
Another aspect to consider about ANTIQUE FUNRITURE is that should be in its original condition
and not altered in any way. This definition is also stretched in many cases because finding pieces
in perfect condition after over fifty years is very difficult. A few popular names in the ANTIQUE
world are EASTLAKE and CHIPPENDALE.