Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Gateleg Table

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Expert: - 8/22/2008


Question

Gateleg Table
I have a Gate Leg table bought about 20 years ago.  I am trying to see if it is worth getting refinished.  I do not know what kind of wood it is, the only stamping I see is on the bottom.  Can you advise, is it a replica?


Answer
Hi Jackie
Nice to hear from you.
Jackie this table looks like it has been stripped and its ready for its finish.
The hard and costly part is done.
The top appears to be mahogany (just going by the look of the sanding dust in the wood grain),but the legs look like birch.
That aside this is a lovely piece.
I see factory dove tails on the drawer.
I do not feel this table is very old.
You ask "if its worth refinishing?". The answer is yes but why don't you put a finish on yourself?
And a word of caution. Don't leave this table too long without a finish as the top could warp.
Good Luck
Regards
Eileen  

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.

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