Antique and Vintage Furniture
Antique furniture refers to pieces of furniture that are at least 100 years old. Sometimes, “antique” furniture is also used for furniture that was made during the 1940’s, 1950’s or even later but in this case it is more appropriate to use the term vintage furniture. The latter is not necessarily inferior to antique furniture and may be just as aesthetically appealing as older pieces but it is typically not as valued as furniture made more than one century ago.
Unlike many other antiquities that are primarily valued for their age and beauty, antique furniture has a functional purpose as well. It is not meant to be admired only. After all, why would you own a chair if you cannot sit on it or a large closet without being able to store clothing and other things in it? Functionality and usability therefore give antique furniture an additional appeal.
The main reason for people buying antique furniture is undoubtedly its unique character which symbolizes a time that is long gone yet continues to live in this wooden objects which is something that is not provided by the most beautiful pieces of furniture made of new wood. Antique furniture emits an extraordinary energy which simply is not there in new furniture. An antique chair is much more than just a chair to sit on. And this is how virtually all people feel about antique items including furniture not just collectors.
The finest pieces of antique furniture are today found in museums, palaces and memorial houses but a considerable amount is available in antique stores, auctions, remote rural areas and lately also online. As already mentioned earlier, antique furniture is primarily sought after for its historical value which enables you to relive the history in your home but it is also highly valued for its unparalleled beauty. Until the Industrial Revolution, all pieces of furniture were handmade and hand carved with exceptional attention to detail and decoration which simply cannot be found in contemporary furniture including those that try to copy the antique look. Antique furniture is therefore the best way to add some prestige to your home even if having predominantly modern decoration. Most pieces of antique furniture give an astonishing contrast to contemporary decoration enabling you to enhance your home and ambiance with an unique table, stool, chair, writing desk, picture/mirror frame, etc.
Antique furniture is very much like wine. The older it is the more it is valued and desired. There are many styles and periods to choose from including Victorian furniture, Baroque furniture, Oriental furniture, Georgian furniture, etc. which makes it a lot easier to combine a piece of antique furniture with the existing decoration. It is also possible to choose between different types of wood the furniture is made of, most often oak, walnut, chestnut, ebony, pine, cherry, beech, elm and mahogany. In general, the value of antique furniture increases with its age but the designer (if known), rarity, artistic value, restoration quality, historical value (if owned or used by a prominent historical figure) and some other factors play an important role in price as well.
Antique furniture does not have to be oversized, overly decorated nor uncomfortable. On the contrary, many pieces of antique furniture are exceptionally comfortable, sturdy and functional as well as durable. Yes, antique furniture is not as fragile as it may seem and it will most likely serve well to future generations as well which makes it an excellent investment. Just like the most important artworks, antique furniture does not lose its value. Over time, its value even increases of course under condition that it remains in perfect condition.
Vintage furniture can be just as beautiful as antique furniture and is a lot less expensive option to add your home some history. It is not as old as antique furniture but that does not necessarily means that is has less historical value. For example, most people would choose their grandfather’s chair over a chair that was owned by an unknown person over 150 year ago. For that reason it may be worth to check your basement and attic before starting to search for antique and vintage furniture in antique stores or online.