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HAND PAINTED 1870 CAPTAIN P.KNOLE STEAMER TRUNK OR CHEST WiTH NAUTICAL THEME
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this lovely hand painted vintage steamer trunk with nautical decoration depicting a ship date 1870 for Capta...
Category

1870s English High Victorian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Pine

French 19th Century Steamer Trunk
Located in Baton Rouge, LA
A fantastic 19th century French traveling trunk, constructed of pine and steel, dressed in light peach colored illustrations on paper. Graphic, geometric patterns and stylized cartou...
Category

19th Century French Other Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Metal

Extra Large Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, High Vuitton Trunk in Checkers Canvas
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This superb Louis Vuitton steamer trunk features the very sought after checkers canvas, all leather chocolate color trim, LV stamped solid brass locks and studs as well as solid bras...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

Italian Renaissance Polychromed Trunk
Located in Queens, NY
Italian Renaissance style carved cassone floor trunk with polychromed and gold trim (17th Cent.)
Category

17th Century Italian Renaissance Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood

Early 18th Century Large Marriage Oak Trunk With a Vaulted Lid and Carvings
Located in London, GB
and durability characteristic of furniture from that era, it retains its original lock and key. Two
Category

1770s German Baroque Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Oak

Antique Swedish Folk Art Pine Trunk with Wrought Iron from the Mid 19th Century
Located in Kramfors, SE
Swedish folk art trunk from the mid 1800s. The trunk is made in northern Sweden and has old historic paint with initials and dating – 1875 – on the lid. The last letter of the initia...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Folk Art Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Pine

Large Antique Storage Trunk, English, Oak, Iron Bound, Silver Chest, Victorian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
Our Stock # 24918 This is a large antique storage trunk. An English, oak and iron bound silver chest, dating to the Victorian period, circa 1880. Superb living room or bedroom stor...
Category

Late 19th Century British Late Victorian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Oak

1920 s Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk in Stenciled Monogram, 110 cm Vuitton Trunk
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This very nice Louis Vuitton trunk features hand stenciled monogram canvas , light honey color lozine trim and Louis Vuitton stamped solid brass locks and clasps, Louis Vuitton stamp...
Category

1920s French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

Small Antique Picnic Case, English, Leather, Suitcase, John Pound, Circa 1920
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a small antique picnic case. An English, leather suitcase by John Pound & Co, dating to the early 20th century, circa 1920. Delightfully distinctive colours to this charmin...
Category

Early 20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

Antique Gentleman s Valet Suitcase, English, Leather, Fitted Interior, C.1920
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is an antique Gentleman's valet suitcase. An English, leather fitted case with silver topped bottles, dating to the early 20th century, circa 1920. Superb fitted suitcase, rep...
Category

Early 20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

19th Century French Wooden Chest
Located in High Point, NC
piece of furniture; it's a conversation starter and a functional heirloom that will continue to add
Category

19th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood

Antique Fitted Silver Chest, English, Oak, Iron Bound, Shipping Trunk, Victorian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is an antique fitted silver chest. An English, oak and bound iron shipping trunk, dating to the late Victorian period, circa 1880. Fascinating bound example, with superb Victo...
Category

Late 19th Century British Late Victorian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Oak

Original Hand Painted Swedish Dome Top Trunk dated 1865
Located in Round Top, TX
This original painted trunk is a great example of Swedish country craftsmanship. The domed top, and hand-painted monogram all reflect its Swedish heritage. Dated 1865, it was likely ...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Country Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Iron

Small Original Painted Swedish Pine Dome Top Trunk dated 1877
Located in Round Top, TX
Small dome top trunk from Sweden dated 1877 and monogram of AJS. The burnished red background is all hand painted in the traditional folk style of the era. Even the interior was pai...
Category

Late 19th Century Swedish Country Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Pine, Paint

Late 19th Century Italian Rustic Antique Trunk in Fir Wood
Located in Casale Monferrato, IT
We are delighted to present this rustic antique Italian trunk, dating back to the end of the 19th century. Crafted from solid fir wood, this trunk exudes a charming rustic appeal, ch...
Category

Late 19th Century Italian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Fir

Twentieth century travel trunk made of wood leather and iron
Located in Cesena, FC
Twentieth-century travel trunk made of leather wood and iron, dating from the early 1900s this large trunk is of fine workmanship. Made of solid forest green lacquered wood, this tr...
Category

Early 1900s Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass, Wrought Iron

George I Studded Leather Trunk on Stand
Located in Greenwich, CT
Fine George I period studded leather travel trunk, dated 1723, on stand, the domed lid studded with brass and iron tacks in a foliate and vine pattern, with the initials "I.M." and "...
Category

1720s English Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

Qing Dynasty Period Lacquered Leather Trunk with Distressed Patina
Located in Yonkers, NY
A Chinese antique Qing Dynasty period storage trunk from the 19th century made of red lacquered leather with distressed patina, Ming style brass hardware and lateral C-scroll handles...
Category

19th Century Chinese Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

Mid-19th Century French Oval Pigskin Leather Hat Box with Original Top Hat
Located in Dallas, TX
This exquisite, antique pigskin hat box was crafted in Rouen France, circa 1870. This leather box with brass bottom, features leather straps and handle embellished with decorative br...
Category

Mid-19th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

EXQUISITE ANTIQUE CIRCA 1900 CHiNESE EXPORT CAMPHOR WOOD STEAMER LUGGAGE TRUNK
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
sophisticated travel. It was made during the British occupation of China, this is known as export furniture
Category

Early 1900s Chinese Chinese Export Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood

19th Century Anglo Indian Inlaid Elephant Motif Trunk or Large Jewelry Chest
Located in Miami, FL
A Fine Quality 19th Century Anglo Indian Inlaid Elephant Motif Trunk This exquisite 19th Century Anglo Indian Inlaid Elephant Motif Trunk is a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. The...
Category

19th Century British Indian Ocean Territory Anglo-Indian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Walnut, Birch, Velvet, Rosewood

Checkers Louis Vuitton Trunk, 85 cm Damiers Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This elegant Louis Vuitton features the very sought after checkers pattern.In some of the checkers, it is written "L.Vuitton marque de fabrique déposée". It also features silver stee...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Steel

Louis Vuitton Trunk in Woven Canvas, 75 cm Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Antique end of the 19th century genuine and superb Louis Vuitton "Malle Courrier" or steamer trunk, medium size, rare and sought after Tissé monogram canvas, black metal bound with b...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass, Steel

Antique Gentleman s Travel Case, English, Leather Suitcase, Harrods, Edwardian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a large antique gentleman's travel case. An English, leather luxury suitcase by Harrods, dating to the Edwardian period, circa 1910. A delightfully robust and usable luxury...
Category

Early 20th Century British Edwardian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

Antique European Painted Large Wooden Dome Top Sea Trunk Treasure Chest
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Antique European Painted Large Wooden Dome Top Sea Trunk Treasure Chest (Locked, no key). Item features a heavy solid wood construction, with cast iron hardware and remnants of the h...
Category

18th Century Unknown Other Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood, Paint

19th Century Qing Dynasty Red Painted Paper Bound Trunk with Brass Lock
Located in Yonkers, NY
A Chinese Qing Dynasty period red painted paper bound trunk from the 19th century with traditional brass medallion hardware and lateral C-scroll handles. This Chinese Qing Dynasty pe...
Category

19th Century Chinese Qing Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

1920 s Louis Vuitton Trunk in Monogram, Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk 100 cm
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This superb Louis Vuitton steamer trunk features stenciled monogram canvas, honey color lozine trim, LV stamped solid brass locks and studs as well as leather side handles and brass ...
Category

1920s French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

Antique French Leather Travel Trunk Beaumont, with Linen Interior
Located in Kramfors, SE
Antique leather travel trunk. The leather is marked with the name Beaumont and the street 93 rue du BAC in Paris. The interior is made in linen fabric with loose baskets that can be ...
Category

Late 19th Century French Rustic Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

Trunk Metal Painted Black Pair Union-Castle Line Safmarine South African Rail
Located in BUNGAY, SUFFOLK
A matched pair of 19th century black metal travelling trunks. Metal carrying handles. Locks no
Category

19th Century English Victorian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Metal

Antique Tiger oak Tea Cart Server Cart With Removable Glass Tray Top
Located in Norton, MA
We are pleased to offer this beautiful Regency-style Tiger Oak Tea Cart, from the late 19th to the early 20th century. Made of Oak with unique tiger patterns throughout with a remova...
Category

Late 19th Century American Regency Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Metal

Antique Victorian Walnut Desk
Located in Norton, MA
Victorian Walnut Desk having leather lift top, 19th century height 50 inches, width 27 inches Shipping Cost: Flate Rate $245 to USA International shipping will be rated by 1stdibs S...
Category

19th Century English Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood

Antique French Petrin Dough Table
Located in Norton, MA
A rare find is a handcrafted French Oak Kneading Dough Table from the early 19th century. This is a French bread dough trough which is a typical sight in the kitchens of large homes....
Category

19th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood

Korean Early 20th Century Storage Chest with Silver Plated Brass Hardware
Located in Yonkers, NY
An antique Korean storage chest from the early 20th century, with silver plated brass hardware and drop down panel. Created in Korea during the early years of the 20th century, this ...
Category

Early 20th Century Korean Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Silver Plate, Brass

Antique Yellow Painted Cottage Primitive Folk Art Small Trunk Faux Spool Cabinet
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Antique Yellow Painted Cottage Primitive Folk Art Small Trunk Faux Spool Cabinet. Item features small lidded trunk with faux cabinet front, yellow and orange original cottage primiti...
Category

Late 19th Century Unknown Victorian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Pine

Antique Swedish Wooden basket 1800 s painted in warm tones Handmade Folk Craft
Located in Forest, BE
Swedish antique pine and birch wooden barrel / basket . Fine quality of bentwood. It is a true piece from the late 18 century / early 19 century. Perfect in a kitchen or next to a d...
Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Folk Art Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Birch, Pine

French 1700 s Stage Coach Messenger Box with Horse Hair and Iron
Located in Louisville, KY
This whimsically charming 18th c. French messenger box is quite the unique find. The outside is covered in horse hide with a bit of the hair still intact. The leather is held in plac...
Category

Early 18th Century French George II Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Bronze, Iron

19th Century Victorian Pair Of Brass Davy Co Yacht Cabin Oil Lamps c.1890
By Davey Co.
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Antique 19th Century Victorian pair of oil lamps by Davey & Co London Ltd. Made from brass and bevelled glass, with a faceted panel in the back to reflect the light, these lamps were...
Category

19th Century British Other Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

Old Metal (Best Steel) Travel Cabin Trunk, Hand Luggage, by T. WILKES SONS
Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight
Old Metal (Best Steel) Travel Cabin Trunk, Hand Luggage, by T. WILKES & SONS Made in the 1920s by T. WILKES & SONS, Trade mark DRAYTONS WORKS -WOLVERHAMPTON - England This trun...
Category

1910s Art Deco Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Metal

Old Metal (Best Steel) Travel Cabin Trunk, Hand Luggage, by T. WILKES SONS
Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight
Old Metal (Best Steel) Travel Cabin Trunk, Hand Luggage, by T. WILKES & SONS Made in the 1920s by T. WILKES & SONS, Trade mark DRAYTONS WORKS -WOLVERHAMPTON - England and This tr...
Category

Early 1900s Edwardian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Metal

English Leather Bound Box on Rectangular Mahogany Custom Stand, circa 1880
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English leather box from the late 19th century mounted on a custom mahogany stand. Born in England during the later years of the 19th century, this exquisite English Victorian lea...
Category

Late 19th Century English Victorian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather, Mahogany, Wood

Large 16th century carved and polychroom painted oak Venetian chest, Italy
Located in Meulebeke, BE
Italy / 16th century / Venetian chest or Cassone / oak, polychroom / antique / renaissance A large carved and gilt painted Venetian marriage chest made in oak in the 16th century i...
Category

16th Century Italian Renaissance Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood, Oak

19th Century Leather Carriage Trunk
Located in San Francisco, CA
An impressive and possibly unique custom made leather carriage trunk. This could also be used as an end table with a glass top, or a seat if reinforced on the inside. Having origina...
Category

19th Century Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

German Dowry Trunk, circa 1870
Located in Evergreen, CO
Crafted from oak and finished with a dark stain in the late-19th century, this German dowry trunk features unique centered feet that make up the base. Original iron hinges and handle...
Category

Late 19th Century German Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Iron

German Dowry Trunk, circa 1870
German Dowry Trunk, circa 1870
$1,676 Sale Price
20% Off
Late Qing Dynasty Large Dowry Chest with Arching Lid, Carved Panels and Drawers
Located in Yonkers, NY
A late Qing Dynasty period antique dowry chest from the early 20th century, with carved panels, three drawers and scalloped skirt. Crafted during the early 20th century, this late Qi...
Category

Early 20th Century Chinese Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

French 1890s Brown and Black Travel Trunk with Leather Straps and Aged Patina
Located in Atlanta, GA
A French rustic travel trunk from the late 19th century, with nicely weathered patina. Created in France during the last decade of the 19th century, this trunk features a black and b...
Category

Late 19th Century French Rustic Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

Pine Dome Top Trunk With Hand-Wrought Iron Details, Denmark circa 1760-1800
Located in Round Top, TX
It is the incredible hand-wrought iron details that make this dome top trunk an exceptional find. Note the elaborate flowers seen throughout the ironwork, encasing the top, corners a...
Category

Mid-18th Century Danish Baroque Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wrought Iron

19th Century Spanish Carved Cassone Trunk with Original Hardware and Three Locks
Located in Miami, FL
Place this elegant antique coffer at the foot of a king size bed. Crafted in Spain, circa 1800, the rectangular trunk stands on bracket feet. Heavily carved on all three sides with a...
Category

Early 19th Century Spanish Baroque Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Iron

19th Century Anglo-Indian Trunk
Located in Petworth,West Sussex, GB
A superb-looking late 19th-century Anglo-Indian trunk with original ribbed iron fittings, brass-bound with decorative mounts, and carrying handles. Traditionally used as patio storag...
Category

Late 19th Century British British Colonial Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Hardwood

Early 20th Century French Black Leather Traveling Trunk with Brass Detailing
Located in Fayetteville, AR
Originally used in the 1920's to carry goods for a traveling salesman, this small scale French wooden traveling trunk is covered in black leather and features wooden runners and bras...
Category

Early 20th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Brass

18th Century Italian Iron Safe - Coffre Forte
Located in Round Top, TX
A very striking 18th century Coffre Forte - Safe - from Northern Italy. Masterly crafted from iron and wood. Wonderful patina and storage. A fabulous piece to serve as a coffee ta...
Category

18th Century Italian Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Iron

1900s Central European Leather Suitcase
Located in High Point, NC
Step back in time with this captivating 1900s Central European Leather Suitcase, a stunning relic of vintage travel charm and craftsmanship. The suitcase boasts a rich, worn leather ...
Category

Early 20th Century European Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

1920s French Leather Suitcase
Located in High Point, NC
Discover the timeless elegance of this 1920s French Leather Suitcase, an exquisite piece that captures the essence of early 20th-century travel. Crafted with meticulous attention to ...
Category

Early 20th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

1900s French Wooden Trunk
Located in High Point, NC
Explore the elegance and historical charm of this 1900s French Wooden Trunk, a quintessential piece from the turn of the century that combines functionality with timeless style. This...
Category

Early 20th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Wood

Early 20th Century Goyard Case
Located in New York, NY
Hand-picked by buyers at Ann-Morris Inc.
Category

Early 20th Century French Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Leather

American Country Slat Trunk
Located in Queens, NY
American Country (19th Cent) grey painted slat design floor trunk with wrought iron corners and trim
Category

19th Century American Country Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Iron

American Country Painted Trunk
Located in Queens, NY
American Country (19th Cent) orange and red faux painted floor trunk
Category

19th Century American Country Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Paint

American Country Mahogany Trunk
Located in Queens, NY
American Country (19th Cent) mahogany floor trunk with wrought iron lock and side handles
Category

19th Century American Country Antique Furniture Trunks

Materials

Iron

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Antique Furniture Trunks For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of antique furniture trunks is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct antique furniture trunks — often made from wood, metal and animal skin — can elevate any home. Antique furniture trunks have been produced for many years, with earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 20th Century. Antique furniture trunks made by Victorian designers — as well as those associated with Industrial — are very popular at 1stDibs. Antique furniture trunks have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Louis Vuitton, Goyard and Hartmann Trunk Company are consistently popular.

Finding the Right Trunks-luggage for You

Add a charming piece of travel history to your space. Antique and vintage trunks and luggage can make a statement as decorative accents and practical furnishings in nearly every room of your home.

There have been many types of trunks and luggage over the years, with availability of these wares broadening as train travel expanded during the 19th century. Antique steamer trunks — named for their use on steamships — mostly date from around 1880 to 1920. These pieces of luggage fit a steamship’s luggage size regulations and essentially doubled as wardrobes, ensuring that a traveler’s evening dresses and suits were kept wrinkle-free on a journey from city to city.

In 1858, French luxury brand Louis Vuitton introduced the world to the now-iconic Louis Vuitton trunks. During this early period of railroad travel, Louis Vuitton trunks solved common travel problems. Instead of the traditional round shape, these handcrafted rectangular trunks stored better on trains. To discourage burglars, the French craftsman and his son, Georges, also eventually patented a revolutionary sophisticated lock for the trunks. The famous LV monogram was first used in 1896 as part of an initiative by Georges to prevent counterfeiting of his coveted travel trunks.

Even if no longer used for travel, the vintage luggage is a popular item among collectors for its historical value and charm. At home, an old wood trunk is a durable storage solution as much as it is a versatile surface. It’s a coffee table in the living room of your farmhouse-style home or rustic loft apartment and a nightstand or blanket chest at the foot of your bed in your bedroom.

From Victorian trunks to Art Deco traveling jewelry cases, journey through history today with an extensive collection of antique trunk suitcases and vintage luggage on 1stDibs.

Questions About Antique Furniture Trunks
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    Yes, antique furniture is in style. Many people appreciate the beauty and handcrafted character of antique furniture and love the idea of owning pieces with a rich history. Remember that style preferences are nothing if not fluid, meaning what's in one year may not be the next. So, in choosing the furniture you're planning to live with, you should pay less attention to interior design fads than to what speaks to you. That way, you can select pieces that will add long-term character to your home. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of antique furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
    To identify your antique furniture, look for an engraving, tag, label or other marking that indicates who produced it. You may find it on the bottom or back of your furniture or inside a drawer or cabinet. Once you have located the marking, you can snap a photo of it and use a reverse image search to try and identify the maker. Or, you can type a description of the mark into a search engine. Alternatively, you can use the services of a certified appraiser or antiques dealer to get assistance with identification. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of antique furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019

    A piece of furniture is considered an antique if it is at least 100 years old.

  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
    Many antique furniture brands are popular. While trends in collecting do vary over time, some makers consistently remain highly sought after. Among them are J. J.W. Meeks, John Henry Belter, R. J. Horner and Co., Stickley Furniture, George Hepplewhite, Josef Dannhauser, Thomas Chippendale and Thomas Sheridan. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    To know if your furniture is antique, look for labels and markings that indicate the maker. From there, you can use trusted online resources to determine when they were active and examine images to try to estimate the age of your piece. Furniture produced 100 years ago or more is antique. You can also have your furniture assessed by an appraiser or antiques dealer to learn about its age. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of antique furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Antique furniture can be worth quite a lot, particularly if it is in good quality. The rarer the piece, the higher the value.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    Whether antique furniture is making a comeback is a matter of opinion. Many people would argue that antique furniture never faded from fashion, as there have always been individuals who love the idea of owning pieces that have history. Some of the most popular styles for antique furniture include Art Deco, Arts and Crafts, Renaissance Revival, Elizabethan, Gothic Revival, Victorian and Chippendale. Find a large collection of antique furniture from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
    To date antique furniture from the UK, first look for identifying markings on the piece. You can then use trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active. From there, you may be able to estimate the year of production by looking at images of other furniture the maker produced. An expert appraiser or antiques dealer can also aid you in the dating process. Find a large selection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    There are a number of factors that can indicate if your antique furniture is valuable. When determining the value of antique furniture, consider its rarity. Additionally, it is important to determine the quality and condition of vintage furniture. If unsure of the value of your vintage furniture, have it appraised.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
    To identify antique Chinese furniture, look carefully at its details. Chinese craftsmen often built furniture using mortise and tenon joinery, eliminating the need for nails and screws. If you see this type of hardware, your piece is likely not at least 100 years old, especially if the hardware still looks new and shiny. Since antique furniture was handmade, you will normally see slight imperfections, such as tool marks or slight variations in carvings. Pieces that appear completely uniform and pristine are less often genuine antiques.

    When present, maker's marks can also be helpful. Research the marks to learn more about when the maker was active and producing pieces like yours. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer evaluate your furniture for you.

    Shop an assortment of antique Chinese furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
    The best finish for antique furniture is a matter of liking. But film finish is recommended by experts as it leaves a thick coat of film on the wood surface which protects wood from water and scratches. Shellac or varnish and water base are commonly used film finishes. Find an exquisite collection of antique, new and vintage furniture on 1stDibs
  • PAGODA RED
    PAGODA REDOctober 7, 2020

    To determine the age of a Chinese furniture piece, look carefully at the joinery and finish. Natural expansion and contraction of the wood over time will cause a joint to protrude or retract, distorting a once-seamless fit. Antique lacquer finishes become crackled and worn over time. Areas of exposed wood, such as the underside of a table, the footrest of a chair, or the back of a cabinet should appear raw and dry compared to the finished surface. With use, the legs of tables and chairs become weathered near the bottom from precipitation and use.

  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024
    To tell how old your antique furniture is, research the maker using trusted online resources. You may find that the furniture maker was active for only a short period, giving you the ability to roughly estimate its age. For manufacturers and designers with a long history of production, consider the style of your furniture and look for images of similar pieces published online. Because it may be difficult to date furniture on your own, consider consulting a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of antique furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
    To tell what your antique furniture is worth, look at sales histories on trusted online platforms and read valuation guides posted on trusted online resources. The maker, type, style, age and condition of your furniture will impact its value. Researching furniture produced by the same maker is a good starting point. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can also aid you in the valuation process. Find a large collection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    How old furniture that is called antique can be is typically at least 100 years. People usually call furniture between 20 and 99 years old vintage. Contemporary is the word for furniture manufactured within the last 20 years. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of antique, vintage and contemporary furniture from some of the world's top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
    To tell antique furniture from reproduction, first check for a maker's mark. By researching the maker associated with the marking using trusted online resources, you can determine when they were active. If the company was in business 100 years ago or more, your piece may be an antique, but if the company's history began more recently, your piece is likely a reproduction. If you can't locate a marking, study the details of the furniture up close. Genuine antiques will often show tool marks and slight variations in carved details because they were typically handcrafted. Most contemporary furniture is machine-made, so you won't usually see these types of characteristics. When in doubt, have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer evaluate your furniture. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of antique furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
    To tell who made your antique furniture, seek out a maker's marking. Locations of these marks vary, but they are generally in an inconspicuous location. For example, a dresser may have the mark inside a drawer or on the back, while a hallmark on a table is often on a leg or under the tabletop. Once you locate a mark, you can use trusted online resources to identify the maker and learn more about them. If you can't find a marking on your piece, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can assist you with the identification process. Explore a large selection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
    To be considered antique, furniture must usually be at least 100 years old. Contemporary is the name for furniture produced within the last 20 years. Vintage furniture is at least 20 years old. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary furniture from some of the world's top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
    To tell the difference between antique and reproduction furniture, first look at hidden areas, such as the backs or insides of the drawers. On reproduction furniture, you may find plywood or engineered wood in these areas, while antique furniture will usually have solid hardwood on drawer interiors and backs. Also, slight irregularities and marks indicating that the furniture was built with hand tools rather than machines usually suggest that the piece is antique. Because it can be difficult to differentiate reproductions from genuine antiques without expertise and training, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer about the age of your piece. Find a diverse assortment of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 25, 2019

    The difference between vintage and antique furniture is that vintage furniture is at least 20 years old, while antiques must be at least 100 years old to be considered antique.

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