Antique Chair – Have You Made Your Choice?

Chairs perform a necessary function in our lives and to some people "their" chair is a matter of considerable personal territoriality. From antique rocking chairs to antique oak chairs, these common but often prized pieces of furniture tend to have a special and sentimental place in our lives.

History Of Antique Chairs

Chairs did not become common household items until the 16th century. Prior to that time they were used as an article of state and carried the implication of wealth, dignity, and power. During the Renaissance the use of chairs became more widespread throughout Europe until they were taken for granted as an article of household furnishings.

Once they became common, chairs also became less ornamental and more functional. By the 20th century easy chairs or recliners were the purview of the head of the house and every family had a few folding chairs around for extra seating at special events. Consequently, older, more formal and ornate chairs became even greater objects of interest to collectors.

Although many people find antique chairs attractive, they are not always comfortable in comparison to more modern pieces. For one thing, people we re shorter even 50 years ago than they are today so a chair that is 125 years old is going to seem really small and cramped. If you are planning to use antique chairs as primary furnishing in your home you want to make sure that both you and the members of your family try them "on for size" first.

How To Collect Antique Chairs

The best rule of thumb in beginning any collection is to acquire pieces you like. Browse quality antique stores and find out what appeals to you. Ask the proprietors to describe the time period and genre to which the chair belongs and then set about educating yourself.

• Do you just like that one particular chair or are you drawn to the genre on a whole?
• Do you like one particular form factor of chairs such as rocking chairs or wingback chairs?
• Do you have a planned use for these chairs in your home and if so, how many can you realistically acquire?
• How expensive are the pieces in which you are interested and how does that expense relate to your budget?

Where You Can Buy Antique Chairs?

Because there are many antique chair types you may find yourself visiting multiple antique stores. Although you can look online at auction sites and vendor sites for antique rocking chairs and other models like antique dining chairs, most people like to sit in a chair before they buy it. Since complete sets of antique dining room chairs are difficult to find, many people wind up mixing and matching similar pieces to build their sets, a process that involves a great deal of looking. Auctions are also a good source for any kind of antique furniture but be careful not to get caught up in the excitement of the moment and buy something on impulse.

Continue to: Best Methods used for Cleaning Antique Rocking Chairs

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