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Painted country furniture – How to tell the difference between reproductions and antiques
If the wear is consistent through the piece, it's likely a reproduction that has been distressed to appear old. If there are gouges or dents, you should see bare wood. Paint over gouges or dents means that it has been repainted.
Construction details. Phillips screws, staples and fiberboard are all tip-offs of any reproductions -whether it's painted or not. What makes painted furniture unique is that these tip-offs can be hidden with paint. On antiques with large surfaces (tables, trunks, armoires), furniture makers used wide boards with an uneven width. Reproductions use narrow boards with an even width.
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