Antiques give you an added mystery to your interiors. However, how do you identify an authentic antique from a fake one? You might be bragging about your newest addition to your antique finds only to realize that it’s never authentic at all.
With the changing world and the rapid innovation of technology, there are numerous ways to make replica materials look like real antiques. However, if you’re not an expert at spotting what’s real and fake, then here’s a quick guide in looking for authenticity.
Artist or Company
An object with a signature is worth it more than a material that has without one. But, having a signature is not also the lone identifier if it’s real or fake. You must be able to identify the type of such item, including the colour, style and texture.
Time Frame
A piece of material can look as old as it can be, but it doesn't mean it was made centuries and decades ago. There are old looking items that were made weeks and months old. So don’t be fooled by these features.
Type of Material
A combination of certain materials can look real, such as a fusion of metal. For example a spelter looks like bronze, but in fact it’s not.
Know your Seller
This may be the first step in ensuring that the store you are into is selling authentic antiques. If you are buying an authentic antique always ask for an official receipt from the dealer. Check the store’s credibility, how was the feedback from other clients. This will give you an assurance that indeed, the store is selling real items.
Rust Matters
Always keep in mind the general rule, that old rusts are brown while new rusts are orange. So generally, an old item has a rust of deep rich brown in colour. Meanwhile, a newer object tends to have vibrant rust.
Dimensions
One way to tell real things from fake ones in cast irons is their dimensions or their physical size. Usually, fake or replicas are being made through the original’s mould, which tends to be smaller. Research for documented dimensions of original pieces can be seen in collectors’ guide books.
Layers of Paint
For wooden antique object, determining the authentic items becomes more of an art of observation. So what exactly should be taken into consideration? Look for layers of paint at the corners and edges. Moreover, the wear at the object should have gradual and gentle wood darkening.
Translucency
For porcelain items such as vases, plates and saucers, translucency is the main feature to look for. A translucent antique will have visible cracks or breaks but have been painted or filled. It will be seen when held up to a strong light.
Conclusion
Before heading into the cashier, have a deep knowledge of your preferred antique to buy. After all, it’s the most valuable thing you can have. Don’t be one of the victims of foolish sellers. Nevertheless, this guide will lead you to buying the most worthwhile antique pieces for your collection.
With the changing world and the rapid innovation of technology, there are numerous ways to make replica materials look like real antiques. However, if you’re not an expert at spotting what’s real and fake, then here’s a quick guide in looking for authenticity.
Artist or Company
An object with a signature is worth it more than a material that has without one. But, having a signature is not also the lone identifier if it’s real or fake. You must be able to identify the type of such item, including the colour, style and texture.
Time Frame
A piece of material can look as old as it can be, but it doesn't mean it was made centuries and decades ago. There are old looking items that were made weeks and months old. So don’t be fooled by these features.
Type of Material
A combination of certain materials can look real, such as a fusion of metal. For example a spelter looks like bronze, but in fact it’s not.
Know your Seller
This may be the first step in ensuring that the store you are into is selling authentic antiques. If you are buying an authentic antique always ask for an official receipt from the dealer. Check the store’s credibility, how was the feedback from other clients. This will give you an assurance that indeed, the store is selling real items.
Rust Matters
Always keep in mind the general rule, that old rusts are brown while new rusts are orange. So generally, an old item has a rust of deep rich brown in colour. Meanwhile, a newer object tends to have vibrant rust.
Dimensions
One way to tell real things from fake ones in cast irons is their dimensions or their physical size. Usually, fake or replicas are being made through the original’s mould, which tends to be smaller. Research for documented dimensions of original pieces can be seen in collectors’ guide books.
Layers of Paint
For wooden antique object, determining the authentic items becomes more of an art of observation. So what exactly should be taken into consideration? Look for layers of paint at the corners and edges. Moreover, the wear at the object should have gradual and gentle wood darkening.
Translucency
For porcelain items such as vases, plates and saucers, translucency is the main feature to look for. A translucent antique will have visible cracks or breaks but have been painted or filled. It will be seen when held up to a strong light.
Conclusion
Before heading into the cashier, have a deep knowledge of your preferred antique to buy. After all, it’s the most valuable thing you can have. Don’t be one of the victims of foolish sellers. Nevertheless, this guide will lead you to buying the most worthwhile antique pieces for your collection.