Start with evidence
An object should be assessed as a physical record. Look at materials, construction, wear, repairs, dimensions and marks. A seller’s description is useful context, not independent proof. Age indicators can be copied, replaced or misunderstood.
Photograph details before purchase where permitted. Record the seller’s wording, any invoice information and the agreed condition. For high-value or uncertain objects, professional appraisal may be appropriate.
Furniture
Inspect joints, backs, drawer construction, feet, hardware and secondary wood. Check whether surfaces match across hidden and visible areas. Look for replaced panels, worm damage, structural movement, veneer loss and later refinishing.
Measure height, width, depth and access routes. A cabinet that fits a room may not fit a stairwell or lift. Transport requirements can change the real cost of a purchase.
Ceramics and glassware
Hold ceramics to light when practical. Look for hairlines, rim chips, glaze movement, overpainting and filled damage. Turn pieces over to inspect bases, foot rings and marks. Marks can be copied or applied later.
Glass requires attention to scratches, chips, clouding, bubbles and polished damage. “Handmade” does not establish age. Pack each item separately and plan for vibration, temperature change and secure storage.
Textiles
Textiles need checks for fading, dry rot, moth damage, staining, replaced sections and unstable fibres. Examine edges, seams and reverse sides. A decorative pattern can continue through a repair, so inspect the structure rather than relying on surface appearance.
Books and prints
Record title, author, edition, publication details, binding, pagination and inscriptions. For prints, inspect margins, paper, foxing, trimming, fading and whether the image is original, reproduced or later printed. Avoid assuming a signature proves authorship.
Clocks and metal objects
Clocks combine case, movement and service history. Do not run a mechanism merely to test it. Ask whether it has been serviced and whether parts were replaced. Metal objects may show casting seams, solder, plating loss, corrosion or later mounting.
Decorative arts and architectural salvage
Decorative objects often mix materials. Check joins, missing components, electrical conversions, surface coatings and stability. Architectural salvage requires measurements, weight planning and awareness of building regulations. Old doors, fittings and lighting may need professional installation or rewiring.
Questions to ask
- What is known about the object’s origin and ownership?
- Which parts are original, replaced, repaired or restored?
- Are dimensions and weight exact?
- Is there an invoice, catalogue record or other documentation?
- What collection and transport method is available?
Important: Visual age is not authentication. This guide cannot establish provenance, authorship, date or value.