Collectors desire mid-19th century coat racks because they are stylish and functional. Characterized by the ornate curves and carvings found in Victorian-era furnishings, a period lasting from 1837 to 1901, antique coat stands act as decorative accessories or as useful additions to any home decor. Recognizing a piece made around the mid-1800s calls for research into ways of identifying an antique coat rack distinct from a later version or a clever reproduction.
Instructions
1. Check for a maker's label or signature. While many pieces of furniture are not labeled, always look for a manufacturer's mark. If the rack has one, research the maker online in furniture guidebooks. Learn the time period during which the firm manufactured coat trees and look for examples of its work. This will help verify the age of your piece.
2. Analyze the construction of the coat rack. Much can be learned from the nails in a piece of furniture. Furnishings made between 1830 and 1890 used headless rectangular nails that were machine-cut. Modern penny nails were not introduced until the end of the 19th century.
3. Examine the piece's patina. An important characteristic of antique wooden coat racks is the patina the wood has acquired from 150 years of handling. A Victorian-era piece will have variations in color due to accumulations of dirt and wax, especially in the grooves of the carving. A coat rack with a uniform color may be a refinished antique, which hurts the value, or a later piece.
4. Study antique furniture guides. Look at a library or bookstore for books that picture and discuss Victorian furnishings. Educate yourself on the ornate detail and elaborate carving of 1860s decor in order to recognize an authentic Victorian coat rack. These types of books include "Victorian Furniture: Our American Heritage" by Kathryn McNerney, "Victorian Furniture With Prices" by David P. Lindquist and Caroline C. Warren, and "Victorian and Edwardian Furniture" by John Andrews.
5. Look at inventories in antique stores. The more you view previously authenticated Victorian coat racks, the easier they will be for you to identify. Visit local antique stores that specialize in vintage furnishings. Let the store owner know of your interest, and ask her for tips on recognizing a true 19th century coat rack. Search online antique stores as well to recognize the shapes and makers of antique coat stands. Look for large Internet dealers that specialize in antiques.
Tags: coat rack, antique coat, antique stores, 19th century, antique coat stands, century coat
