Posted 6 years ago
Antibro
(4 items)
First of all, yes I now realize that I have done irreparable damage to this piece. I didn't start learning or develop a passion for antique furniture till it was too late. But I would still like to know more about it if anyone can help. Best I can tell it predates 1860. It's bow front and has the marble laid into the top which is unlike the others I find where the entire top is marble.
Looks to be heavily reworked. Parts of it may be 19th century.
The drawer joint looks like a later joining of an earlier dovetail piece. The marble top looks modern as does the black painting.
The work on this one was way overdone.
scott
I believe the done tailing and marble are original. Like I started with I know I did irreparable damage before I realized. The black paint was me. When I got it, it appeared to be in original form. I did also restore Sheen to marble with some 2000-3000 grit wet sanding and buffing it out. I suppose its possible someone previously had routed out the top of the dresser and laid in the marble but it looked like it came that way to me. The wood on top going around marble was originally veneered but in pretty rough shape. The idiot that I am removed it, them restored n stained wood beneath instead of re applying veener. I left veneer on sides and drawer fronts, but prepped and stained drawers and painted sides. I should have left the piece alone until I learned more n probably focused on preserving it instead but hind sight is 20-20
The paint can be removed with gentle strippers targeted for paint but not stain. You'll want to do some research. Veneer can be bought at Menard's or online. I like the stained wood as is, but the paint should go. At the same time, though, if you do that you kill the balance the black paint adds. It comes down to style versus period correctness. I myself default to period-correct, but as it's been done.... up to what you or the buyer wants.
Thank you. Regardless I wasn't happy with the way the black turned out. One way or another I'm going to redo it that's why I was hoping to find some insight as to what era and Providence or historical significance Etc the peace May possess. If it just happens to be an old well built piece of furniture I may take it in a whole different direction where if there is some value or significance to the Antique side of it I would definitely be going more towards its original look and period correctness.
I collect a lot of Regency furniture. I would think from pics it is a 1920's piece when they were doing a lot of remakes of Regency furniture in the french taste. Nice high quality.
I have been lurking in the background on this and sitting on the fence. I totally agree with scottvez. I can also accept Antibro's approach and I was a bit surprised with PhilDMorris reply. Goes to show we all see through different eyes. I would like to have seen before pictures because this is.....shall we say a bit unusual. Have a good day folks.
i agree with Phil. i look at the wood where the dovetailing is and it looks just like 1910-1930 repros. but still very nice. i love the black carrara marble.
I would also concur with Phil, Regency revival. Also concur with Antibro on the black paint, Would helped to see what you started with. The good news is everything that has been dun to it can be reversed, if you desire. The Marble looks original, and correct to the piece.