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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/repair of antique chippendale dining chair

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Expert: - 8/31/2008


Question

photo of arm chair (ar
How would I go about repairing the arm chair of an English Chippendale Mahogany chair. The arm is detached from the side of the back of the chair, but is still attached at the base of chair (would also be interested in knowing value of set of 8 chairs - 2 arm, 6 side)

Answer
Hi Rosemary
Nice to hear from you.
Most chairs like this are attached to the back with screws.
The screws are actually counter sank into the arm then a plug of some sort hides the screw head.
The chair could also be dowelled and glued but its probably one screw.
If the arm comes away from the back it should be easy to see the screw.
You will need to remove the plug that hides the screw head.
Then the screw hole in the chair back will need to be plugged a bit.
Use a wooden toothpick and glue to fill the hole and make it smaller or else the screw will not stay put when you replace it.
The screw worked loose and made the hole bigger so it now must be made smaller.
Check to see if there was also glue used to strengthen the area where the arm touches the back.
If yes, use a bit of glue and then screw the arm back on and plug the hole.
Very easy fix that I know you can do.
Very lovely chairs but I cannot offer an opinion on value.
Oh what the heck LOL..In my neck of the woods, (Canada), I have seen such chairs (solid mahogany)sell at auction for $100.00 to $150.00 each.
Funny how sales go. Sometimes high sometimes not.
Kind Regards
Eileen

    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentEileen, Thank you so much! very helpful!


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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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