If you’ve ever wondered about the ” how to date age Bassett furniture,” you’re in for an exciting journey. Dating Bassett furniture can be like solving a captivating puzzle, and with a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to uncovering its hidden history.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through easy methods to determine the age of your Bassett furniture. From examining labels to understanding design styles, we’ll cover it all.
So, let’s embark on this delightful journey together, and soon, you’ll be able to tell the story behind your beloved Bassett furniture piece.
Tips To Date Bassett Furniture
Here are some valuable tips that can help you unlock the captivating world of Bassett furniture dating. These guidelines will guide you accurately about “How To Date Bassett Furniture.”
1. Check for a Manufacturer’s Mark
The first step in dating Bassett Furniture is searching for a manufacturer’s mark.
This mark, often found on the back or bottom of the piece, tells who made it.
It might be stamped or printed.
Older Bassett Furniture often has a physical stamp or label.
Recognizing the mark can help you trace the furniture’s age.
If it’s worn out, a magnifying glass could help.
2. Examine the Style and Materials
The style and materials of the furniture piece often provide strong hints about its age.
Bassett Furniture has undergone several stylistic changes throughout its history, and its designs often reflected the popular styles of the time.
For instance, Mid-Century Modern Bassett furniture pieces from the 1960s often feature clean, simple lines and were typically constructed from hardwoods like walnut or teak.
3. Consult Bassett Furniture Catalogs
Old Bassett furniture catalogs can be a useful tool in determining the age of a piece.
These catalogs often have pictures and descriptions of different furniture styles from various years.
Compare your piece to the ones in the catalogs.
If your furniture matches a certain year’s style, it is likely from that period.
This can be a fun and straightforward way to date your Bassett furniture.
4. Seek Professional Help
If you’re finding it hard to date your Bassett furniture, feel free to seek professional help.
Experienced furniture historians have extensive knowledge about furniture styles and materials.
They can give you a precise estimate of the age and value of your Bassett furniture.
Remember, it’s always better to ask for help than to remain in doubt.
5. Look at Construction Techniques
Understanding construction techniques can aid in dating Bassett furniture.
Older pieces often have dovetail joints, while newer furniture uses more modern assembly methods.
Handcrafted details suggest an older piece, as Bassett now uses machine-made components.
Wood screws instead of staples or glue also indicate an older piece.
Exploring these aspects can help you pinpoint the era of your Bassett furniture.
4 Types of Old Bassett Furniture Pieces & Their Values
In this section, we will delve into four distinct categories of old Bassett furniture and explore their unique characteristics and importance. Additionally, we’ll provide their potential market values, lending a deeper understanding of their worth over time.
1. Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern Bassett furniture pieces, dating from the 1950s to the 1960s, are highly sought after.
These items often feature clean lines and basic designs and are made of durable hardwoods like walnut or teak.
Due to their timeless design and superior craftsmanship, their value can range from hundreds to several thousand dollars, depending on the condition and rarity of the piece.
2. Bassett French Provincial
Bassett French Provincial furniture is a style popular in the mid-20th century, mostly recognized for its elegant details.
These pieces often have curved lines and carved accents and use lighter, often painted wood.
Their value can range widely, depending on the item’s condition and uniqueness.
Some pieces can be worth several hundred dollars, while rare items may fetch thousands.
3. Bassett Mission Style
Bassett Mission Style furniture, influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century, is known for its simplicity and functionality.
These pieces are specially constructed from oak and showcase a rustic aesthetic.
Depending on the piece’s age and condition, the value can range from $100 to $1000.
4. Bassett Art Deco
Art Deco pieces from Bassett date back to the 1920s and 1930s.
These items are recognized for their bold designs, vibrant colors, and high-quality materials.
Given their age, rarity, and popularity among antique lovers, Bassett Art Deco pieces can have a value of anywhere from $500 to several thousands of dollars.
Key Factors to Identify & Price Your Old Bassett Furniture
To accurately identify and price your old Bassett furniture, various factors come into play. This section will guide you through the key indicators that can help you understand the true value of your old Bassett piece.
1. Condition of the Furniture
The condition of your Bassett furniture is an important factor in evaluating its value.
Items that are in excellent condition, showing minimal signs of wear and tear, usually command a higher price.
Check for scratches, stains, or any kind of damage. If the original finish is intact, the piece might be more valuable.
2. Rarity of the Piece
Rarity plays a significant role in determining the price of Bassett furniture.
Pieces that are hard to find or were part of a limited production run often carry a higher value.
If your furniture item is unique or has a rare design, it could be worth more than you think.
3. Authenticity of the Item
The more authentic the Bassett furniture, the higher its value.
Manufacturer marks, labels, or signatures can confirm authenticity.
Furniture items that retain their original hardware are usually more desirable to collectors and, thus, more valuable.
4. Market Demand
Finally, the current market demand for Bassett furniture significantly impacts its price.
Pieces that are popular or in style can fetch a higher price.
Keep an eye on the latest trends in Bassett furniture, and evaluate how much similar pieces are selling for on online marketplaces, auctions, or antique stores.
Conclusion
How To Date Bassett Furniture is an intriguing process that combines history, artistry, and detective work. By examining the design style, consulting old catalogs, seeking professional help, and understanding construction techniques, you can estimate the age of your Bassett pieces. Identifying the type of Bassett furniture you own, whether it’s Mid-Century Modern, French Provincial, Mission Style, or Art Deco, also adds to its historical context and value. Key factors such as condition, rarity, and market demand will help you price your Bassett items accurately. With these tools in hand, you can proudly claim your place as a knowledgeable Bassett furniture owner. It’s rewarding to know the age and value of your furniture, as every Bassett piece carries a rich legacy that transcends time and trends.
FAQs
How can I identify the age of my Bassett furniture?
How To Date Bassett Furniture is an intriguing process that combines history, artistry, and detective work. To identify the age of your Bassett furniture, look for clues in its style and construction. Check if the piece has manufacturer’s marks or labels. Older pieces often have unique details like handcrafted elements or dovetail joints.
Are there specific labels or marks that indicate the production date?
Yes, certain labels or marks can indicate the production date of Bassett furniture. The company often placed labels or stamps on the underside or inside of their items. These labels might include the production date or model number, which can be cross-referenced with company records or catalogs to determine the age of the piece. Always check for these marks when trying to date your Bassett furniture.
Are there any construction techniques that can help date my Bassett furniture?
Yes, certain construction techniques can help date your Bassett furniture. Older furniture often has handcrafted details or dovetail joints. Newer pieces might use staples or glue. Also, the type of wood used can give clues about the age. Darker woods like mahogany or walnut were popular in older furniture, while lighter woods are common in newer pieces.
Where can I find vintage catalogs or advertisements to compare with my piece?
Vintage catalogs or advertisements for Bassett furniture can be found in various places. Online platforms such as eBay often have these old catalogs for sale. Digital archives or library resources may also offer old Bassett catalogs or ads. Additionally, you can contact Bassett Furniture directly, as they may have historical records or can guide you to find them.
How can wear and patina provide clues about the age of my furniture?
Wear and patina can give hints about a furniture piece’s age. Over time, furniture develops a thin layer, called patina, from years of use. This gives an aged appearance. Heavy wear areas like the arms of chairs or surfaces where hands are often placed show use and age. Furniture with more wear and patina is likely older.
What are some key characteristics of mid-century modern Bassett furniture?
Mid-century modern Bassett furniture typically features clean lines, simple forms, and functional design. Often made from wood like teak or walnut, these pieces may also incorporate materials like metal or glass. Key characteristics include tapered legs, lack of ornamentation, and a focus on natural, earthy tones. The style reflects a desire for practical yet stylish living, prevalent during the mid-20th century.
