[BCMA] Appraisal on 19th century Settees

[Moderated BCMA subscriber listserv.]

Your settees appear to be similar to that which I have recently been
researching.  If they are original, they appear to have been recovered
(though that is hard to tell from a photo.  There was a period in the late
1950's and early 1960's where reproductions were produced in Europe, so
investigation of the construction methods should be undertaken.  Joints
where modern (ish) techniques are employed may indicate repros.

Victorian furniture may be constructed of various materials, though wood
such as walnut and mahogany are common. Fabrics typically used in Victorian
items may be jacquard, leather, chenille, or velvet, to name a few.

Examine the frame or structure of the piece. A Victorian settee will have a
well-constructed wooden frame, typically with dovetailed joints. Modern
joints including synthetic glue or non-standard (slotted) screws may
identify a reproduction or later alteration. Look at the back frame, arms
and legs to be certain that the wood and construction matches so you
will can identify modifications or repairs.

An antique sofa may be very finely carved but should still show signs of
being handmade. Carved details such as rosettes, finials, incised lines and
elaborate feet may all help authenticate. Settees dating to the 20th
century are typically more heavily upholstered. Many settees of this era
have casters, some only on the front legs.

Are the padding and springs original? Many Victorian settees have been
reupholstered. Older settees should have strong metal frames and horsehair
padding. Down may also be used. Modern fiberfill or foam, or a synthetic
covering underneath is a sign of reupholstery or a reproduction piece.

The settees I have acquired are Victorian, but have been reupholstered.  In
my case the upholstery closely matched the original style, so the settees
were accepted as "prop" furniture. Sturdy and practical wools appear in
vintage sofas of the early 20th century, along with richer velvets and
leather.

Though I am not an appraiser, and can only base approximate value based on
my research, I have found that these settees can vary in value from $400.00
to $1,000.00 depending on the quality, originality, and condition.


Bradley Froggatt
Manager of Heritage Services
Fort Steele Heritage Town
phone: 250 417 6000
cell: 250 420 7161
Fax: 250 489 2624
www.fortsteele.ca

*Join us for our annual Easter Egg Hunt, Sunday April 20!*
*For more information please call 250-417-6000 or visit www.fortsteele.ca
<http://www.fortsteele.ca/>*


On Thu, Apr 10, 2014 at 1:25 PM, Moderated BCMA subscriber listserv. <
bcma at lists.vvv.com> wrote:

> Hello,
>
> The Westbank Museum has recently acquired two Victorian era (according to
> the donator) settees. We are in the process of calculating the worth of
> these two settees in order to have a tax deductible sent out to the
> donator. We have been searching online for something comparable. Would
> anyone have any idea of value or even know of the exact era these are from?
>
>
>
> Kind regards,
>
> Anastasia
>
>
>
> Westbank Museum
>
> 2376 Dobbin Road
>
> Westbank, B.C. V4T 2H9
>
> 250-768-0110
>
> www.westbankmuseum.com
>
> info at westbankmuseum.com
>
>
>
> [image: WBMsignature]
>
>
>
>
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