Collectibles-General (Antiques)/cavalier chest

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Expert: - 5/14/2005


Question
I found a chest that needs work like a new veener and i sent it to a guy who says he has been in the business for 40 years.My question is since i don't know what the piece is worth can this person ruin the antique value of the piece by fixing it and what can i tell him to do so he doesn't screw it up?

Answer
Hi Ricky.
Nice to hear from you.
If the chest needs work, you will not ruin the value by fixing.
Just make sure you find out if this person knows what they are doing. Ask for references. You will not have to tell a pro a thing...he will know what to do.
Most of these chests I see are not hugely expensive, but of course I have not seen yours.
I am also finding that where I live (Canada), these chests are certainly sought after and will often attract numerous bidders.
Ricky here is a neat link I know you will be interested in.
http://www.jitterbuzz.com/indcav.html
Kindest Regards
Eileen
PS..sorry for the delay in answering. Our phone lines were down.  

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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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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