Determining the value of antique furniture can feel like navigating a complex maze of history, craftsmanship, and market trends. Whether you’ve inherited a family heirloom, discovered a potential treasure at an estate sale, or are simply curious about the worth of your vintage pieces, understanding antique furniture valuation is both an art and a science.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about assessing the value of antique furniture. From identifying authentic period pieces to understanding what makes certain items command premium prices, you’ll learn the essential factors that professional appraisers consider when determining value.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Antique vs. Vintage Furniture
- Key Factors That Determine Antique Furniture Value
- How to Identify Authentic Antique Furniture
- Assessing Condition and Its Impact on Value
- Popular Antique Furniture Styles and Their Values
- Where and How to Get Furniture Professionally Appraised
- Selling Your Antique Furniture: Options and Considerations
- Common FAQs About Antique Furniture Value
Understanding Antique vs. Vintage Furniture
The term “antique” traditionally refers to items that are at least 100 years old. Furniture pieces dating from the 1920s and earlier generally fall into this category. “Vintage” furniture typically refers to quality pieces made in the period spanning from the 1920s to the 1980s, while furniture younger than 40 years old is generally considered “used” or “pre-owned.”
This distinction matters significantly when determining value. True antiques often command higher prices due to their age, historical significance, rarity, and craftsmanship. However, certain mid-century modern pieces from the 1950s and 1960s have also become highly collectible, sometimes fetching prices comparable to much older furniture.
Evolution of Furniture Classification by Age
- Pre-1923
Antique
Furniture made more than 100 years ago is classified as a true antique. These pieces typically show construction methods and materials consistent with their era of manufacture. - 1923-1983
Vintage
Furniture from this era is considered vintage. Includes popular periods like Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern, and Post-Modern. Many vintage pieces are gaining value rapidly. - 1983-Present
Contemporary/Used
Furniture less than 40 years old is generally viewed as contemporary or used. Most mass-produced items in this category depreciate in value, with notable designer exceptions.
Understanding this classification is your first step toward properly assessing a piece’s potential value. Keep in mind that not all antiques are valuable simply because of their age—numerous other factors come into play.
Key Factors That Determine Antique Furniture Value
Critical Value Factors
Age
Generally, older pieces tend to be more valuable, especially if they represent significant historical periods. Items from the 18th and early 19th centuries often command premium prices due to their age and historical significance.
Rarity
The scarcity of a particular piece significantly impacts its value. Limited production runs, pieces from famous historical events, or furniture made by renowned craftsmen often fetch higher prices.
Provenance
Documented history of ownership, especially if connected to notable historical figures or events, can dramatically increase value. Furniture with verifiable provenance from important estates or collections may sell for multiples of similar pieces without documentation.
Maker or Brand
Furniture made by recognized craftsmen, designers, or prestigious manufacturers typically commands higher prices. Look for maker’s marks, labels, or signatures that can help identify the creator.
Condition
The state of preservation dramatically impacts value. Original finishes, hardware, and minimal restoration generally translate to higher values. As one appraiser from Gray’s Auctioneers notes, “Improper restoration can permanently destroy the value of any vintage or antique piece.”
Materials
High-quality woods like mahogany, walnut, and rosewood typically indicate more valuable pieces. Look for solid wood construction rather than veneers or composites in older pieces.
Style and Design
Certain furniture styles have greater market demand than others. For example, Mid-Century Modern and Art Deco pieces have seen significant appreciation in recent years, while heavily carved Victorian furniture has experienced declining demand.
Craftsmanship
The level of skill and detail in a piece’s construction significantly affects its value. Hand-carved details, intricate joinery, and exceptional artistry command higher prices.
Value Indicators by Condition
How condition affects antique furniture pricing
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Market Trends
The antique furniture market experiences fluctuations in demand for different styles and periods. What’s highly valued today may be less desirable in coming years. According to research from various auction houses, traditional brown furniture has seen decreased demand in recent decades, while specialized collector niches like Mid-Century Modern have flourished.
A Reddit user in r/Antiques recently observed: “In my opinion antique furniture is a better bargain than IKEA and other cheaply manufactured furniture. It has lasted 50, 100, 150 years and will continue to last with proper care.”
How to Identify Authentic Antique Furniture
Examine the Construction
Authentic antique furniture often exhibits construction techniques specific to its era:
- Look at joinery: Dovetail joints, mortise and tenon, and other hand-cut joinery methods suggest older construction. As noted by Vine Disposal, perfectly uniform dovetails typically indicate modern, machine-cut construction.
- Check for irregularities: Hand-crafted pieces usually show subtle variations that machine-made furniture lacks.
- Inspect the underside: Examine bottoms, backs, and insides for saw marks, plane marks, or other signs of hand-crafting.
Evaluate the Hardware
Hardware can provide significant clues about a piece’s authenticity:
- Look for patina: Original hardware should show consistent aging with the furniture.
- Check for period appropriateness: Square nails suggest pre-1880s construction, while perfectly round, machine-cut nails indicate later manufacture.
- Examine screws: Handmade screws with off-center slots and irregular threading suggest pre-1850s origin.
Assess the Wood and Materials
The materials used provide important authentication clues:
- Identify the wood species: Different periods favored different woods. For example, walnut was popular in the 17th century, mahogany in the 18th, and rosewood in the 19th.
- Look for age-appropriate patina: Genuine antiques develop a distinct patina over time that’s difficult to fake.
- Check for secondary woods: Less visible areas (drawer sides, backs, etc.) often used less expensive woods in authentic antiques.
Search for Makers’ Marks and Labels
Many quality furniture makers left identifying marks:
- Check underside surfaces: Bottoms of drawers, backs of pieces, and underneath seats often contain stamps, labels, or signatures.
- Research any markings: Cross-reference found markings with furniture maker directories or consult an expert.
- Be aware of fake labels: Unfortunately, reproduction furniture sometimes bears counterfeit labels.
Authenticity Assessment Checklist
Use this checklist to evaluate potential antique furniture
- Evidence of hand-cut joinery (dovetails, mortise and tenon)
- Wood has natural patina and age-appropriate wear patterns
- Hardware appears original with consistent aging
- Construction materials consistent with the purported period
- Evidence of hand tools on less visible surfaces
- Presence of saw marks, plane marks, or other hand-tool evidence
- Style details accurate for the purported period
- Maker's marks, labels, or signatures (if present) appear genuine
- Secondary woods appropriate for the period and style
- Consistent wear patterns that match the piece's supposed age
Consider the Style Accuracy
Each furniture period has distinctive stylistic elements:
- Research period characteristics: Familiarize yourself with design elements specific to various historical periods.
- Look for style consistency: All elements of a genuine antique should be consistent with its purported period.
- Be wary of mixed period features: These often indicate reproductions or heavily modified pieces.
Assessing Condition and Its Impact on Value
Original vs. Refinished
One of the most debated aspects of antique furniture value is whether original finishes are preferable to refinished surfaces:
- Original finish: Generally commands higher prices among serious collectors and museums. Original surfaces show authentic patina and genuine aging.
- Refinished: May appeal to decorators and casual buyers seeking aesthetic appeal over historical integrity. Professional, period-appropriate refinishing has less negative impact than poor-quality work.
According to Prestige Estate Services, “A sympathetic restoration by a qualified professional can maintain most of a piece’s value, while amateur refinishing can destroy up to 70% of potential worth.”
Common Condition Issues
Various condition problems affect value differently:
- Structural damage: Broken legs, split panels, or compromised joinery significantly reduce value.
- Surface damage: Scratches, water rings, and finish wear have moderate impact depending on severity.
- Missing components: Original hardware, trim pieces, or decorative elements significantly impact completeness and value.
- Repairs and replacements: Period-appropriate repairs have less impact than modern fixes or replacement parts.
Professional vs. DIY Restoration
If restoration is necessary, who performs the work matters greatly:
- Professional restoration by recognized experts can maintain much of a piece’s value if done with period-appropriate techniques and materials.
- DIY restoration often dramatically reduces value, particularly if modern methods or inappropriate materials are used.
Documentation of Condition
For valuable pieces, proper condition documentation is essential:
- Detailed photographs showing all sides, special features, damage, and repairs
- Written condition reports noting all issues, previous restorations, and missing elements
- Restoration history documenting who performed previous work and what methods were used
Popular Antique Furniture Styles and Their Values
Colonial/Early American (1650-1800)
- Characteristics: Simple, functional designs; often crafted from native woods like pine, maple, and cherry
- Market Value: Authentic early American pieces can command $5,000-$50,000+ depending on rarity and condition
- Investment Potential: Steady appreciation for documented examples with original surfaces
- Notable Items: Highboys, gate-leg tables, Windsor chairs, blanket chests
Federal/Empire (1780-1830)
- Characteristics: Classical influences; more ornate than Colonial; often features figured mahogany
- Market Value: Quality pieces typically range from $3,000-$30,000
- Investment Potential: Moderate; has seen renewed interest from designers in recent years
- Notable Items: Secretary desks, sideboards, Pembroke tables, tall-case clocks
Victorian (1830-1900)
- Characteristics: Ornate, heavily carved designs; dark woods; often incorporating multiple materials
- Market Value: Varies widely from $800-$15,000 depending on quality and maker
- Investment Potential: Currently undervalued; may see future appreciation as design trends evolve
- Notable Items: Parlor sets, fainting couches, étagères, heavily carved bedroom suites
Arts & Crafts/Mission (1880-1920)
- Characteristics: Simple, rectilinear designs emphasizing visible construction; primarily oak
- Market Value: Quality pieces by known makers like Stickley can fetch $3,000-$25,000+
- Investment Potential: Strong; has maintained consistent collector interest
- Notable Items: Morris chairs, library tables, slatted rocking chairs, bookcases
Art Deco (1920-1940)
- Characteristics: Geometric designs, exotic woods, chrome accents, stylized motifs
- Market Value: Quality pieces range from $2,000-$20,000+
- Investment Potential: Very good; limited supply of authentic pieces with growing demand
- Notable Items: Cocktail cabinets, vanities, dining suites with contrasting veneers
Mid-Century Modern (1940-1970)
- Characteristics: Clean lines, minimal ornamentation, mix of materials, emphasis on functionality
- Market Value: Designer pieces from $1,500-$30,000+; mass-produced items from $500-$3,000
- Investment Potential: Strong for designer items; mass-market pieces may have peaked
- Notable Items: Eames lounge chairs, Danish teak dining sets, Knoll office furniture
Antique Furniture Value by Era and Type
Average market values for quality examples in good condition
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Museum Quality | 100% of market value | Original finish, minimal wear, all original parts |
| Excellent | 80-90% of market value | Minor wear, mostly original parts, sympathetic restoration if any |
| Good | 60-70% of market value | Some wear consistent with age, minor repairs, may have replacement parts |
| Fair | 30-50% of market value | Noticeable wear, multiple repairs, significant replacement parts |
| Poor | 10-25% of market value | Extensive damage, major alterations, requires substantial restoration |
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Where and How to Get Furniture Professionally Appraised
Types of Appraisals
Different appraisals serve different purposes:
- Insurance appraisal: Determines replacement value for insurance coverage
- Fair market value appraisal: Establishes realistic selling price in the current market
- Liquidation value appraisal: Determines quick-sale value (typically lower than fair market)
- Donation appraisal: For tax purposes when donating items to charitable organizations
Finding Qualified Appraisers
Seek out professionals with appropriate credentials and expertise:
- Professional organizations: Look for appraisers affiliated with the International Society of Appraisers (ISA), American Society of Appraisers (ASA), or similar accredited organizations
- Auction houses: Major auction houses like Fontaine’s Auction Gallery offer appraisal services
- Antique dealers: Established dealers often provide informal appraisals, though they may have conflicts of interest if also offering to purchase
- Museum curators: For particularly significant pieces, museum specialists may offer expertise
What to Expect During an Appraisal
Understanding the appraisal process helps ensure accurate results:
- Documentation review: The appraiser will examine any provenance documents, receipts, or historical information
- Physical examination: A thorough inspection of construction, materials, condition, and identifying marks
- Photography: Detailed photos documenting the piece from multiple angles
- Research: The appraiser may conduct additional research on similar pieces and recent sales
- Written report: A formal appraisal should include a detailed description, valuation, and supporting documentation
Appraisal Costs
Professional appraisals aren’t free, but they’re worth the investment for valuable pieces:
- Hourly rates: Typically $150-$300 per hour depending on expertise and location
- Flat fees: Some appraisers charge per item, often $250-$600 for standard furniture pieces
- Written reports: Comprehensive written appraisals may incur additional fees
- Travel expenses: On-site appraisals may include travel charges
According to the Decorative Collective, “If you haven’t bought an appraisal, you can determine the value of your antique furniture from a dealer. More often than not, a dealer will provide a price that is most likely the wholesale value.”
Online Appraisal Options
For preliminary valuations, several online options exist:
- Virtual appraisals: Many professional appraisers now offer video consultations
- Online marketplaces: Sites like WorthPoint provide access to past auction records
- Auction archives: Major auction houses maintain searchable databases of past sales
- Social media groups: Facebook groups like Antique & Vintage Furniture Identification can provide informal community assessments
Selling Your Antique Furniture: Options and Considerations
Auction Houses
Auctions can be excellent venues for valuable antiques:
- Advantages: Access to knowledgeable buyers; competitive bidding can drive prices up; handling of marketing, photography, and transactions
- Disadvantages: Commission fees typically 20-50%; no guarantee of minimum price unless reserve is set; potentially long waiting periods
- Best for: Higher-value pieces with established collector markets; rare or unusual items; pieces with provenance
Antique Dealers
Selling directly to dealers provides immediate results:
- Advantages: Quick transaction; no marketing required; dealer handles transportation
- Disadvantages: Typically offers 40-60% of retail value; limited negotiation leverage
- Best for: Those needing quick cash; items too large to ship easily; less valuable pieces
Online Marketplaces
Platforms like eBay, 1stDibs, and Chairish reach wide audiences:
- Advantages: Global buyer reach; ability to set your price; lower commissions than auctions
- Disadvantages: Requires photography, descriptions, and shipping management; potential for fraudulent buyers
- Best for: Mid-range furniture; items that ship reasonably; pieces with strong visual appeal
On eBay’s antique furniture section, you’ll find a wide range of options, from chairs and tables to cabinets and desks, spanning numerous design periods.
Estate Sales Companies
Professional estate sales can liquidate entire collections:
- Advantages: Handles all aspects of selling; attracts knowledgeable buyers; good for selling multiple pieces
- Disadvantages: Commission typically 30-50%; less control over individual pricing; limited to local buyers
- Best for: Entire estates or large collections; immovable or very large pieces
Consignment Shops
These retail spaces sell your items for a percentage:
- Advantages: No upfront costs; professional display and marketing; ongoing retail exposure
- Disadvantages: Commissions of 40-60%; typically long selling periods; no guaranteed sale
- Best for: Decorative pieces with broad appeal; items in excellent condition; furniture that complements current design trends
Direct to Collectors
Finding the right collector can yield the best results:
- Advantages: Potentially highest prices; satisfaction of knowing piece goes to an appreciative home; no commissions
- Disadvantages: Requires networking and research; time-consuming; may involve difficult negotiations
- Best for: Specialized or rare items; pieces with strong provenance; items with passionate collector bases
Common FAQs About Antique Furniture Value
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get my antique furniture valued?
There are several approaches to getting your antique furniture valued:
Professional appraiser: The most accurate option. Look for appraisers certified by organizations like the International Society of Appraisers or American Society of Appraisers.
Auction houses: Many auction houses offer free initial assessments to determine if they’re interested in selling your piece.
Antique dealers: Local dealers can often provide informal valuations, though be aware they may offer wholesale rather than retail values.
Online resources: Websites like WorthPoint or LiveAuctioneers let you research similar items that have sold recently.
Appraisal events: Antique shows and events sometimes feature appraisers who provide quick valuation estimates.
For items with potentially significant value, investing in a professional written appraisal is strongly recommended.
What makes old furniture valuable?
Multiple factors contribute to antique furniture value:
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Age: Generally, older pieces command higher prices if they’ve survived in good condition.
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Rarity: Limited production items or those that rarely survived to the present day are typically more valuable.
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Provenance: Documented history, especially connections to historical figures or events, can significantly increase value.
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Maker: Furniture by recognized craftsmen or prestigious manufacturers commands premium prices.
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Condition: Original finishes, hardware, and minimal damage preserve value.
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Style popularity: Market demand for different styles fluctuates over time.
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Quality of materials and craftsmanship: Superior woods, hand-carved details, and expert joinery increase value.
Originality: Unaltered pieces with original components generally bring higher prices than restored or modified examples.
How do I find out what my antiques are worth?
To determine what your antiques are worth:
Research the maker: Look for signatures, stamps, or labels and research the maker’s history and reputation.
Document provenance: Gather any receipts, family history, or documentation showing the item’s origins and previous owners.
Check auction records: Websites like LiveAuctioneers, Invaluable, and Heritage Auctions maintain searchable databases of past sales.
Consult reference books: Books specific to your furniture type or period can provide valuable insights and past sales information.
Visit similar retailers: Check antique stores and online marketplaces to see asking prices for comparable items.
Seek expert opinions: As noted by Veranda magazine, "If you are looking to sell, it’s always a smart idea to reach out to an expert to fully evaluate the piece and give you an accurate appraisal."
Consider regional variations: Furniture values can vary significantly by location based on local interest and design trends.
How can I tell if old furniture is valuable?
Several indicators can help determine if your old furniture might be valuable:
Quality construction: Look for solid wood, hand-cut dovetail joints, and other signs of quality craftsmanship.
Maker’s marks: Check for signatures, stamps, labels, or other manufacturer identification.
Original hardware: Original period-appropriate hardware suggests authenticity and preserved value.
Age-appropriate patina: Natural aging of wood surfaces suggests authenticity.
Unusual or rare designs: Uncommon styles, especially those with documented historical significance, often have higher value.
Signs of hand crafting: Look for evidence of hand tools, slight asymmetry in carvings, or other indicators of handwork.
Historical significance: Furniture associated with important historical periods, events, or figures generally commands higher prices.
Original finish: According to Gray’s Auctioneers, "Improper restoration can permanently destroy the value of any vintage or antique piece," so original finishes are typically preferred.
How much is 1950s furniture worth?
The value of 1950s furniture varies widely based on several factors:
Designer pieces: Furniture by recognized designers like Eames, Saarinen, Nelson, or Wegner can command $1,000-$10,000+ depending on model and condition.
Brand recognition: Pieces from manufacturers like Herman Miller, Knoll, or Danish makers like Fritz Hansen typically bring higher prices.
Mass-produced items: Standard 1950s furniture without designer pedigree generally sells for $200-$1,000 depending on condition and style appeal.
Materials matter: Solid teak or walnut pieces typically bring more than those using laminates or less desirable woods.
Condition considerations: Original finishes, upholstery frameworks, and hardware significantly impact value.
Market trends: Mid-century modern furniture has seen strong demand over the past decade, though some market segments may have peaked.
Originality: Unmodified pieces in original condition typically command significantly higher prices than refinished or altered examples.
Iconic designs: Recognizable classic designs like the Eames Lounge Chair or Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen can bring the highest values, often exceeding $5,000 for authentic examples.
How can I identify my antique furniture?
Identifying antique furniture involves examining several key characteristics:
Style analysis: Research furniture design periods to match your piece’s characteristics with historical styles.
Construction techniques: Different eras used distinctive construction methods:
- Hand-cut dovetails suggest pre-1860s construction
- Wooden pegs instead of screws indicate early construction
- Machine-cut joints typically date after 1860
Materials examination: Identify the primary and secondary woods used, as different periods favored specific materials.
Hardware inspection: Examine hinges, pulls, and other hardware for period consistency.
Maker’s marks: Search thoroughly for signatures, stamps, paper labels, or brand marks.
Reference resources: Utilize furniture identification guides, museum websites, and auction catalogs.
Expert consultation: For particularly puzzling pieces, consider consulting with museum curators, auction specialists, or antique dealers.
Online communities: Groups like the Facebook "Antique & Vintage Furniture Identification" community can provide collaborative identification help.
Is my vintage furniture worth anything?
To determine if your vintage furniture has monetary value:
Designer research: Determine if your piece was created by a recognized designer or made by a prestigious manufacturer.
Production volume: Limited production pieces typically have higher value than mass-produced items.
Condition assessment: Evaluate the condition, noting any damage, repairs, or modifications that might affect value.
Market demand: Research current market interest in your furniture’s style and period.
Recent sales data: Check completed listings on auction sites and marketplaces for similar pieces.
Current decorating trends: Styles currently popular in interior design often command higher prices.
Quality indicators: Solid construction, quality materials, and good design generally correlate with higher value.
As one Reddit user observed: "In my opinion antique furniture is a better bargain than IKEA and other cheaply manufactured furniture. It has lasted 50, 100, 150 years and will continue to last with proper care."
Where can I sell my antique furniture for the best price?
Different selling venues offer various advantages depending on your furniture's type, value, and your timeline:
Specialty auction houses: Best for high-value, rare, or collector-focused pieces. They reach knowledgeable buyers but charge 20-50% commission.
Online marketplaces:
- 1stDibs or Chairish for higher-end designer pieces (commission 15-50%)
- eBay for mid-range items with broad appeal (fees approximately 10-15%)
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for local sales with no fees
Antique dealers: Offer immediate payment but typically at wholesale prices (40-60% of retail value).
Consignment shops: Handle selling details but charge 40-60% commission and sales may take months.
Estate sale companies: Good for entire collections but charge 30-50% commission.
Direct to collectors: Finding specialized collectors through forums or clubs can yield the highest prices but requires research and networking.
Local auctions: Good for regional pieces with local interest; commission typically 20-40%.
For maximum return, research each option based on your specific furniture type and local market conditions.
Conclusion: The Enduring Value of Antique Furniture
The value of antique furniture fluctuates with market trends, but quality pieces have consistently proven to be sound investments over time. Beyond financial considerations, these pieces offer historical connections and aesthetic beauty that mass-produced modern furniture cannot match.
Whether you’re a collector, dealer, inheritor, or simply curious about that old family heirloom, we hope this guide has provided valuable insights into understanding antique furniture values. Remember that appraisal is both an art and a science—while guidelines exist, each piece tells its own unique story that contributes to its ultimate worth.
For particularly valuable or significant pieces, consulting with qualified professionals remains the best approach to accurate valuation. Their expertise, combined with the knowledge you’ve gained from this guide, will help ensure you make informed decisions about your antique furniture’s true value.
External Resources for Antique Furniture Valuation
The Decorative Collective: Valuing Vintage Furniture
A comprehensive step-by-step guide for beginners on valuing antique and vintage furniture pieces.
Fontaine's Auction Gallery: Antique Furniture Appraisal
Professional insights on antique furniture characteristics that affect value, from a respected auction house.
Prestige Estate Services: Antique Furniture Appraisal Tips
Expert tips and tricks from professional antique furniture appraisers on determining value.
Gray's Auctioneers: Signs Your Furniture is Valuable
Learn nine key indicators that suggest your furniture may be worth over $1,000.
Vine Disposal: Identifying Valuable Old Furniture
A practical guide to spotting potentially valuable old furniture pieces, including identification tips.
Antique & Vintage Furniture Identification Group
A Facebook community dedicated to helping identify and value antique and vintage furniture.
M.S. Rau: Rare Antique Furniture
View examples of museum-quality antique furniture from the 17th through 20th centuries with detailed descriptions.
r/Antiques on Reddit
A community forum where experts and enthusiasts discuss antique furniture identification and valuation.
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| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Colonial Highboy | $8,000-$45,000 | 18th century, original hardware |
| Victorian Parlor Set | $2,500-$12,000 | Complete matching set, original upholstery framework |
| Stickley Morris Chair | $3,000-$12,000 | Signed examples with original finish |
| Art Deco Bedroom Suite | $4,500-$18,000 | Complete matching set with original hardware |
| Eames Lounge Chair | $5,000-$8,000 | Authentic Herman Miller production, original leather |