08-21-2017 03:18 PM
I acquired this piece in a storage locker and would like some assistance in identification and valuation.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
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09-14-2017 04:51 PM
08-24-2017 10:25 AM
post some pictures of drawer construction. The bottoms and one showing the dovetails. Also, any exposed dovetails on the surface/exterior. A picture of the interior of a drawer showing the backside of the hardware would also be helpful. Does it have dustboards between the drawers?
08-24-2017 10:27 AM
from the pictures you have posted so far, it looks like you have an American Chippendale period chest on chest, mid-late 18th century. Probably maple. Right up my alley... LOL.
08-24-2017 05:34 PM
08-24-2017 05:37 PM
Thanks for the reply, I just posted a bunch more pics. Sorry some are rotated 90 degrees, but this is my first time posting in the community and it rotates any of my pics taken in portrait view.
08-24-2017 05:38 PM
I just posted a bunch more pics. Any opinion on value would be appreciated. And if it's up your alley, it is definitely for sale.
08-25-2017 10:34 AM
My opinion has not changed but it has been confirmed. Mid-late 18th century American Chippendale chest on chest. The hardware is not original but is the right style for the piece. Not 100% sure of the woods from the pictures alone but it looks like maple with pine secondary. Probably not original finish.
I would not be interested in buying it unless you were local so I could inspect it beforehand, AND, it would have to be dirt cheap. This kind of stuff is not selling well right now and I am finding good pieces locally for pennies on the dollar, sad but true. If you are in the greater Seattle area, I'd take a look at it.
I don't give valuations over the internet, sorry. Appraisals are more complicated than just "giving out numbers" and I charge for that service.
08-25-2017 10:36 AM
It's a beautiful piece, BTW.
08-25-2017 11:41 AM
Fair enough, I appreciate your input and expertise!
08-25-2017 01:11 PM
Oh, and I am in Michigan...defintely not local. Thanks again!
09-05-2017 03:54 AM
Everything that Flannagan said but I would add that the scrolled base has been altered/added to increase value (when there was a value to alter). Look at the age and wear of the very bottom board and compare it to the base; they should have similar old color & wear....and they don't.
09-06-2017 12:36 PM
Thanks! I sent the pics to a reproduction furniture maker and he too said that the base had been replaced, and notthat well. When you say, when there was a value, are you speaking to the overall American antique market, or this piece in particular?
Thanks again for the input.
09-07-2017 09:57 AM
Yes, just a general comment on 18th century furniture values and as you noted, the work on the base is what I call "heavy handed". I wish values were up as I find myself painfully passing on perfectly good early American pieces; I won't buy them anymore. Good luck with it!
09-08-2017 11:48 AM
American pieces still sell. I just sold a gorgeous tiger maple slant front desk. It's all about what you pay for something. I am still buying good period American furniture. It's all about the price. Besides, when it comes back into fashion, and it WILL, I will have a good supply.
09-14-2017 04:51 PM