Buying antiques: thoughts on my number one rule

In France they call it a “coup de coeur”. In English I guess it’s “love at first sight.” In either language it means the favourable impact a great piece of furniture, mirror or object make when you first see them, and it constitutes rule one in my list of five tips for good antiques buying.

If you’re new to buying antiques I hope this will help, if you’re a seasoned buyer, I hope you’ll enjoy my view of our world.

First impressions, whether antique furniture, paintings, mirrors or statues…

Always remember your first impression because it will remain true and that unique aura or personality of a piece will communicate itself just as strongly to others who see it.

There are the five rules I like to consider when buying antiques, but for now, I’m focussing on my number one “impact” – that initial feeling and the key aspects that should immediately strike you.

IF FURNITURE IS MADE OF SOLID OR VENEERED WOOD…
Are the colour and figuring pleasing? Take into consideration the light you are in. Remember a piece will look quite different in broad daylight or a candlelit room.

Does it have old or new gilding of a good tone?

Is the metalwork, such as handles, hinges or escutcheons, good looking and original?

One of my favourite examples of excellent workmanship is this 18th century French serpentine commode= – stunning wood and metalware.

IF IT’S AN ANTIQUE MIRROR….
Is the glass plate original or replaced and does it have a good colour? (Old is best but these days you can get excellent replacements.) This late 18th century English mirror illustrates the striking effect of an original mirror plate. Although you may find it easier to see the effect by popping in to our showroom!

DOES THE SIZE AND ANGLE YOU VIEW AT MATTER?
Is the piece the right kind of size and proportions for the place it will go into?

How does it look from different angles? Sometimes a piece will be positioned so that it can be seen mainly from a three-quarters angle.

Or it may need a good back if that will be visible. This French desk is double sided, so it looks great from both aspects.

If it’s a dining table, desk or coffee table does it seem the right height? You can always measure later to be sure. Also, are the legs good looking and sound when you focus on them alone?

UPHOLSTERY, JOY OR DESPAIR FOR YOUR ANTIQUES…
For upholstered furniture, are there any off-putting blemishes, is the piping straight and any buttoning correctly positioned? But don’t be put off a good frame by poor upholstery. It can always be changed, as you can see with this recently re-upholstered 19th Century English Chesterfield Sofa, perfect in a beautiful neutral linen, hopefully you agree.

THE MOMENT OF TRUTH…
Lastly, stand back, close your eyes then look again. With all the above points in the back of your mind, if you still love it, then you will probably end up buying it!

Why not visit Brownrigg and put this to the test?