Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Duncan Pfife Desk

Advertisement

Expert: - 11/30/2006


Question
I bought an older desk at "antique store" Looks just like my mothers, a duncan pfife, is there a way to tell if it is a duncan pfife ? also desk has gouge (sp) in to or numerous deep scratches all together, idea on how to repair.
thanks apprecieate your time
Jana

Answer
Hi Jana
Nice to hear from you.
There is no way you or I could tell if your desk is genuine.
Read this to get an idea
http://www.antiquetalk.com/column250.htm

Here are some images of this furniture with a few desks.
http://images.google.ca/images?svnum=10&hl=en&sa=X&oi=spell&resnum=0&ct=result&c...
Its possible the scratches can be fixed with one of those wax crayon fillers.
They are available at the hardware in many shades.
Simple to use too.
It would be great if your desk proved genuine but read the article and you get an idea of how remote that would be.
And Jana let me know how you make out as I am here to help.
And if this is just "a desk" LOL, you could consider refinishing if you are fond of the piece.
Kindest 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.