Antique American Bedroom Furniture: The First Taste

First and foremost, the term antique refers to something that is at least a hundred years old. But it is not enough that it is old, it also has to be rare, meaning they have a limited supply and are in demand which explains why they can get so pricey. Antiques have classifications such as furniture, toys, ceramics and jewelry. However there is nothing more worthwhile than collecting antique furniture. Aside from their unfailing value and practicality, they are also quite sturdy because of their solid wood construction. Moreover, as these pieces have fine craftsmanship, they are more like pieces of artwork than pieces of furniture. Antique American bedroom furniture is one of the most sought after.

Before getting excited in purchasing and planning how to incorporate antique American bedroom furniture in the existing theme of your house, it may be a good idea to know more about the periods of antiques. Mastering distinctive styles will assure soon to be collectors that their purchases are worth the cost.

The colonial period of antique American bedroom furniture includes the Jacobean and Colonial, Queen Anne and Chippendale. The Queen Anne style is named after Queen Anne of England who reigned from 1702-1714. It is most known for having cabriole legs, fiddle-back chair backs and drawer pulls shaped like a batwing. It has a graceful appearance and moderate proportion. Chippendale, on the other hand, was named after Thomas Chippendale, a British designer and cabinet maker. This style has noticeable Gothic influences, Chinese influences and French influences. The cabriole leg from the Queen Anne style was used and further developed during this style. It is the most popular style in antique American bedroom furniture.

The Federal period of antique American bedroom furniture, which falls from 1780-1820, is further divided into 3 periods including Hepplewhite, Sheraton and Classical. Pieces from the Hepplewhite period are characterized by their delicate appearance. It is named after George Hepplewhite, a British designer and cabinetmaker.  They usually have tapered legs and have contrasting veneers and inlay. This style was widespread in the United States particularly in Maryland, New England, New York and Virginia. The Sheraton style is distinctive with its light construction and delicate, straight lines. It was named after the English designer, Thomas Sheraton. It often has neoclassical motifs and ornamentation. During the federal period, this style was the most produced.

There are many ways to be able to identify which period they are from. It can be from the overall design or the kind of wood used. The textiles used for the upholstery can also indicate the period as there are some periods that prefer a particular texture or pattern. The craftsmanship of legs can also designate a piece even though there are certain styles that overlap. The intricate carvings are also quite distinctive, that it is one of what collectors observe when purchasing antique American bedroom furniture. Other specific details such as where the family crest is located, screws, the cut and the make would also prove to be useful.