While there are no hard and fast rules, here are some very basic guidelines : Study as many publications on interiors as possible and decide on the general direction of style you would like to…
An antique – what is it worth?
The rise in value of antiques, and the opportunities this has presented, has spawned a large number of ‘experts’ recruited into the front desks of auction houses and TV shows. ‘Personalities’ have emerged dispensing knowledge…
Bizarre cures for the Black Death
The Plague or Black Death was first recorded in England in the mid 14th century. There was little contemporary medical understanding of the disease which resulted in many obscure and bizarre suggestions as remedies. The…
How to remove scratches from polished wood
Here are some tips from an old time furniture restorer on how to remove a scratch on polished wood. Not for the faint hearted! This procedure is recommended for deep scratches – minor ones can…
The evolution of the writing desk in England
Before William Caxton’s (1420-1492) Printing Press appeared in England, purpose-made furniture directly associated with writing was virtually unknown. Writing was undertaken on a raised surface, simple table or lap, and confined mainly to ecclesiastical subjects…
Hearst Castle, San Simeon, California, USA.
Hearst CastleWhile completing a furnishing project in southern California recently, I took time out to visit Hearst Castle. I had been working for a customer in Los Angeles on a project which was a loose…
A brief introduction to the evolution of the antique chair from early times to the mid 18th century.
EGYPT : The earliest recorded use of furniture dates back to at least the Early Dynastic period in Egypt Ca. 3500 BC. We know this from contemporary wall paintings. Beds/recliners seem to have pre-dated most…
Rolls Royce Centenary Alpine Trial 2013
Antique collectors and dealers (of cars or works of art) have one thing in common – namely an eye for quality and rarity. Box House Antiques owner John Maas had the good fortune to be a…
Some guidance on buying antique furniture
1. Decide on what specific period you are interested in, and locate a specialist dealer accessible in your area. Check out any that are still in business after at least 30 years. I cannot stress…
Some brief insights into various woods antique furniture collectors and enthusiasts may encounter
Beech: Quite hard and common wood chiefly used in chair making, seat rails, seat frames, bent chair backs. However beech is very vulnerable to attack in the sapwood by wood boring insects. Occurs commonly in…