How to Identify Authentic Antique Furniture

Spotting the Real Deal

When shopping for antique furniture, it's essential to know what to look for. Reproductions can be convincing, but they often miss the subtle details of hand-craftsmanship.

1. Look at the Joinery

Machine-cut dovetails are perfectly uniform. Hand-cut dovetails, common in pieces before 1860, will have slight variations in size and angle.

2. Check for Saw Marks

Straight saw marks suggest a piece was made before the mid-19th century. Circular saw marks indicate a later date, after the invention of the circular saw.

3. Examine the Finish

Original patina is hard to fake. Look for natural wear in areas that would be touched or used frequently, like drawer pulls and chair arms.