Expert: Eileen Cronk - 7/25/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have these chairs that have been reupholstered and I'm trying to find out if they are antiques.  The chairs have wheels on two of the four legs.  When I look on the bottom of the chairs I do not see any make or stamps of any sort.  I could take of the fabric on the bottom but I then I don't have staples to put back on them.  Are you able to look at these chairs and let me know if they are antiques?

ANSWER: Hi Holly
Nice to hear from you.
The picture quality is bad but these are Victorian parlor chairs.
I cannot tell the age but you can help in the process.
Look underneath the chairs.
Take note of the wood color.
If its old it will be easy to spot as the wood will be quite dark and aged looking.
On a new chair the wood will look new.
Also look at any screw heads if they are visible.
Old chairs will have slot head screws.
These screws will also be darkened with age.
The chairs have been recovered (or bought that way), so there will be no clues there but look for the things I mentioned.
Also a good quality picture would help more but just from what I see I am going with "yes" they are antiques.
Kind Regards
Eileen


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your quick response.  I will look at the things you mentioned and where would I be able to look to find a value for the chairs.

Answer
Hi again Holly
Yes do a good inspection.
These chairs do not have huge value as they don't suit the more modern home but they would sure suit mine LOL.
And the upholestry appears very well professionally done.
I have seen similar chairs sell for $100.00 up to $175.00 at auction.
Thats in great condition of course.
I have also seen similar in poor condition that the auctioneer couldn't get a bid on.
Just depends who wants what on a particular day at auction.
For a better estimate consult an appraiser in your area but I don't think it will be much different.
Kind Regards
Eileen