Question 1

What is a maker’s mark on furniture?

Accepted Answer

A maker’s mark is a markstamped, impressed or painted on an antique  and helps identify it as authentic. Maker’s marks on antiques are similar to trademarks on newer pieces.

Question 2

What is a furniture maker called?

Accepted Answer

A furniture maker is sometimes called a carpenter or furniture designer. More generally, you can refer to someone who makes furniture by hand as a craftsperson or artisan. The term furniture maker can also apply to a company that manufactures furniture. Find a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 3

What characterized the work of furniture maker Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann?

Accepted Answer

A few things characterized the work of Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann. By the end of his career, he was best known for being a skilled ensemblier, a term for a designer who not only makes furniture and decorates spaces but personally crafts each and every piece required in the space, from doorknobs to sofas. This practice ensured that the space was harmonious and consistent with Ruhlmann’s vision, and it contributed to the lasting popularity of his designs. While the Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau movements were early influences, he is renowned for the modernity of his Art Deco designs, which reflected the opulent nature of the era, involving luxurious materials like Macassar ebony, amboyna burl, ivory and precious metals and skilled craftsmanship and construction techniques. Explore a variety of Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 4

Is vintage furniture worth it?

Accepted Answer

Many believe that vintage furniture is worth it. Vintage pieces can offer unparalleled craftsmanship and timeless beauty while making living spaces more unique. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in vintage furniture is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find a range of vintage furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 5

How old is vintage furniture?

Accepted Answer

A piece of furniture must be at least 20 years old to be considered vintage.

Question 6

How do you identify vintage furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify vintage furniture, you'll need to determine if its production year was 20 to 99 years ago. One way to do so is to research your piece. Start by finding maker's marks and looking them up on trusted online resources. Once you know the maker, you can then learn more about its history and offerings to get a rough idea of the approximate age of your item. Another option is to ask a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer to date your furniture. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of vintage furniture.

Question 7

How do I know if my Drexel furniture is vintage?

Accepted Answer

To know if your Drexel furniture is vintage, examine its serial number, which you will usually find in a hidden spot, such as beneath a tabletop or on the back or bottom of a casegood. By cross-referencing this number with information available on trusted online resources, you should be able to estimate the year of production. Drexel furniture produced more than 20 years ago would qualify as vintage. If you need assistance with dating your piece, seek the advice of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Drexel furniture.

Question 8

How do I identify vintage Thomasville furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify Thomasville furniture, look for the maker's mark, usually found in a discreet place, such as under a seat or tabletop or on the base or back of casegoods. Thomasville typically stamped pieces with its wordmark, which may read "Thomasville Chair Company" or "Thomasville Furniture," depending on the age of your piece. To find out more about your piece, you can conduct research using trustworthy online resources. If you need help with identification, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer. Explore a range of Thomasville furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 9

How do you identify vintage wicker furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify vintage wicker furniture, first try looking for a maker's marking, usually found under tabletops or seats. If you find a marking, you can use trusted online resources to determine which company or artisan crafted your furniture. Then, you can read further to determine when they were active and producing pieces like yours. To be vintage, your furniture must be at least 20 but no more than 99 years old. If you don't see a marking or have trouble conducting research, consider having a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer assist you. Find an assortment of vintage wicker furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 10

How can I tell if bamboo furniture is vintage?

Accepted Answer

The first step in determining if an item is vintage bamboo is to first make sure it’s bamboo. Bamboo is inflexible, so if there are curved shapes in the design it is actually rattan, not bamboo. Your next step is to understand the style of the piece of furniture, the brand, and look for telltale signs that it is an authentic piece from that brand. Shop a range of antique and modern bamboo furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 11

How do I identify vintage patio furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify vintage patio furniture, start with the maker's markings. You will usually find stamps, tags or labels with the maker's name in hidden places, such as under seats and tabletops. By comparing the marking with images shared by trusted online resources, you can learn who produced your patio furniture. Then, you can continue your research to find out more about the style name, year of production and other characteristics. Typically, patio furniture must be at least 20 years old and no more than 99 years old to be categorized as vintage. For help with the identification process, turn to a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Find a large collection of vintage patio furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 12

How do I identify vintage Lane furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify vintage Lane furniture, examine your piece in search of its date code. Most Lane furniture displays a series of numbers that tells you when it was made when read in reverse. For example, a piece that reads “2971120” would be “02 11 79,” indicating that Lane crafted it on February 11, 1979. To be considered vintage, a Lane furnishing must be at least 20 years old. For further assistance with making an identification, use the services of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of Lane furniture.

Question 13

How do I identify vintage Woodard patio furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify vintage Woodard patio furniture, look for the maker's markings. On three-piece sets, you'll typically find paper labels that bear the brand name underneath the cushions. Sofa and chair frames may also feature welded-on metal labels bearing the brand name. For wrought iron pieces, check the frame for an embossed "Woodard" mark. Once you find the markings, you can use trusted online resources to determine a rough idea of the age of your piece. Anything produced more than 20 years ago, but less than a century ago, is vintage. Pieces more than 100 years old are antique, while those made within the last two decades are contemporary. If you're unable to locate any markings, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer can assist you with identification and dating. On 1stDibs, explore an assortment of Woodard furniture.

Question 14

How do you find out how much vintage furniture is worth?

Accepted Answer

To find out how much vintage furniture is worth, look at the history of sale prices for comparable pieces on trusted online platforms. You can begin your research by determining the maker of your furniture. Since the condition of your furniture will also impact its value, you may also wish to have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer evaluate it. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of vintage furniture.

Question 15

How can you tell if wrought iron furniture is vintage?

Accepted Answer

One way to tell if wrought iron furniture is vintage is to look for markings that indicate who produced it. Markings may appear on the underside, back and legs of wrought iron tables and chairs. You can then use trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and producing pieces similar to yours. Consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer if you can't find markings or have difficulty dating a piece.

Walter Lamb’s adventurous works and those of other mid-century designers noted for their seminal outdoor furniture — a list that includes Hendrik Van Keppel and Taylor Green, Russell Woodard, Maurizio Tempestini for John B. Salterini and Richard Schultz for Knoll — is often found among the offerings of 1stDibs dealers.

In colder regions, wrought iron, which can be left outdoors all year round, was the material of choice in outdoor furniture designs for the Atomic Age.

Shop a variety of vintage wrought iron furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What’s the difference between vintage and antique furniture?

Accepted Answer

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.

Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Danish 2-seater "Banana" sofa, original cherry-red velour.

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish 3 seater sofa, original very good condition, cotton/wool fabric.

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish "Banan" 3 seater sofa, original condition, velour.

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish design, set of 4 reupholstered dining chairs.

1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1950s, Danish 3 seater sofa in original very good condition, oak wood.

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish design by Kurt Østervig, 3 seater sofa, model 57, original.

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish 3-seater "Banana" sofa by Edmund Jørgensen, original condition.

Late 20th Century American Rustic Vintage Furniture Makers

Rustic Two Door Dry Bar by Habersham Furniture c. 1990 s

Mid-20th Century Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Mid-Century Modern, 1960, Retro Danish Ingmar Relling Siesta Lounge Chair

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Danish chest of drawers, beech wood.

1950s American Vintage Furniture Makers

Davidson Ltd Ribbon Mahogany Parcel Gilt Regency Coffee Table

1970s Norwegian Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Norwegian design armchair, blend wool fabric, bent wood.

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

New Hope Modern Walnut Center Table

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

McCobb Nelson Style Lane Jewelry Chest Cabinet Box Mid Century Modern

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s Studio Craft Oak Wall Mirror by Charles Webb

1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1950s, Danish artdeco coffee table with shelf, ash wood.

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Pair of Diamond Front Night Stands in the Style of Johnson Carper

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, set of 6 Danish dining chairs, original condition, oak wood, wool.

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Danish design by Henning Kjærnulf, set of 4 dining chairs.

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Mid Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenza Sideboard by Bath Cabinets Danish Style

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish armchair, original condition, teak wood armrests, chrome steel.

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Walnut Coffee Table by George Nakashima

1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish chair by Farstrup, original condition, solid teak wood, leather.

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Danish 3-seater sofa, original brown leather.

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Danish 2-seater sofa, original brown leather.

1960s Danish Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Rosewood Extendable Coffee Table for Haslev Møbelsnedkeri

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, 2-seater Swedish sofa, brown leather with patina, dark beech wood.

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

W. H. Russell for Gordon Russell Dining chairs

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Danish highback armchair, black artificial leather, teak wood legs.

1970s Norwegian Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Scandinavian design, lounge chair, original condition, leather, bent wood

1960s English Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Mid- Century Modern Teak OvalExtendable Dinning Table By G Plan, 1960 s

Late 20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s Danish Ingmar Relling Brown Leather Armchair

1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish cinema/theater armchairs, original condition.

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Mid-Century Maple "Planner Group" Desk by Paul McCobb for Winchendon

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

Franz Köttgen for Kill International Leather Daybed

1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1960s, Danish office cabinet, original condition, teak wood, sliding door.

1970s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Swedish side table by AB Carlstrom with drawer, teak wood.

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1970s, Scandinavian side table with drawer, solid oak wood, teak wood.

1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers

1950s, Danish vintage lounge chair, reupholstered, blend wool fabric.

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Furniture Makers