You are here:

Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Mahogany table finish and colors

Advertisement

Expert: - 5/12/2008


Question
Hi,  my Mother bought a 1937 Brandt Duncan Phyfe style mahogany dining table with 5 leaves and 8 chairs.  its a beautiful set but the leaves were apparently never used and are a much richer reddish tone than the rest of the table.  I am wondering if it would be worth the expense to refinish the faded portion of the table top to match the leaves?  She bought the set for $850, so would the restoration be economically feasible with the idea of reselling the set?  thanks!

Answer
Hi Jim
Nice to hear from you.
This always happens to table tops and we don't notice it until we drag the leaves out from under the bed or from the closet where they sit and never see the light of day.
I do not feel its economically a good idea to have the table top done to match the leaves unless you where keeping it and just could not live with it the way it is.
As far as resale goes, you will not increase the sets value by removing the original finish.
You could in fact decrease it.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.