Identifying an Antique Desk?

Judy
Gold Post Medal for All Time! 677 Posts

January 22, 20190 found this helpful

It is a beautiful piece of furniture. I can't make out the mark. To determine age, look at how the drawers are put together. Pins and dovetails were the way drawers were made before 1860, when machines took over. Here is a helpful article to read: home.howstuffworks.com/.../how-to-identify-antique-wooden-furniture...

Pghgirl40
Bronze Feedback Medal for All Time! 196 Feedbacks

January 22, 20190 found this helpful

This is an amazing piece!! I suggest taking good photos or the piece if you can, to a trusted antique dealer and getting his/her professional expertise on exactly what you have.

I have never seen a piece quite like it! It has the spools, the drop leave, the cubbies!! In the right market with the provenance correctly documented, I am thinking it will fetch a decent amount for you.

The challenge with pieces like this are it may be a one of a kind (meaning it has been modified over the years). Also for selling, the average person will be more willing to pay the true value to a dealer, than a "lay person".

Please post back what you learn! I am so excited to hear about it. Just a stunning piece!!!

Hello
Bronze Post Medal for All Time! 107 Posts

January 22, 20190 found this helpful

this is a lovely secretary with many compartments made in nice mahogany wood and it looks to be at least 80 years old

cybergrannie
Gold Feedback Medal for All Time! 949 Feedbacks

January 23, 20190 found this helpful

Looks like a really nice desk - these were made to be used - very functional.

• Your pictures are a little dark so some details are not very clear.
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• It may be expensive to try and get an on site appraisal and also may be difficult to find someone that has true knowledge of this particular piece.
• You may be able to get an online appraisal and some of these are free. You would probably be surprised at what you find out without spending a "penny".
• If you decide to take this extra step you will need clearer, lighter pictures and also be sure to show a full front view (without the stool) and show it opened and closed as well as good side views (full side view).
• Show all markings inside and out as well as the back of the desk. The more photos you show the more information you will receive.
• You should also give dimensions and state anything you have knowledge of as far as age, where (city) it was purchased (maybe where your mother lived when purchased) as all of this is important.
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• www.whatsellsbest.com/.../antiques.html