With the popularity of shows like Antiques Roadshow and Pawn Stars, the demand for antiques and value within the antiques market has been on the rise. Many of the pickers and hunters out there are searching for antiques in hopes of hitting it big financially while other collectors are simply doing it to enjoy the aesthetic beauty and the history of the items. For the individual new to the market, there are a few tips to consider when it comes to locating quality antique desks and furniture.
eBay is in fact a good resource, however there a few drawbacks to keep in mind when browsing the items available on the net. You cannot see the item in person. What this means is that you are putting your trust in the seller. There are very few ways of validating the claims of the seller when the object is not in front of you. Because of this you run the risk of buying reproductions or damaged items either because the seller is not knowledgeable about the item or is simply being dishonest. A sure-fire way to get your collecting days off to a good start is to go to garage sales and charity stores such as the Salvation Army.
When you go to places such as these you can inspect the antiques thoroughly. Before you venture out, it is also good to build up some background knowledge on the particular type of antique desk that you are looking for. The facts that you want to have in hand include working knowledge of designs from certain time periods that indicate it is an authentic antique and some idea of the current market value so that you do not end up paying an inflated price. In terms of out-of-pocket money, locating antique furniture at a garage sale is your best bet. In this setting owners many times are not aware of the value of their piece or if they are, they are much more willing to haggle on the price of the items as opposed to the store setting where the prices are generally fixed.
There are a few visual cues to let you know you are looking at antique desks, should you come across what you believe to be the perfect piece. There should be slight irregularity in proportions. The wood shrinks and warps over the years causing this effect. Wear on the wood and some discoloration of the stain should be present. You do not want to see much too much wear however because this will decrease the value of the item. You may also want to be able to identify the types of wood that were particular to a specific era or craftsman to assist in authenticating the piece.
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