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Dear 1Earth,
I recently saw a table at a fair that
interested me. The owner told me that it was an Eastlake and offered to
sell it to me for $260. I am skeptical that it is an Eastlake, but I think
it might be an American-made example of the Eastlake style. I like the
table. It's in good condition and has not been refinished. It's a small
entryway size table approximately 2 feet in diameter with Gothic details
on the woodwork down by the legs. Whether it's an Eastlake or not, what
would be a fair price for this and how can I tell its origins?
— E.S., Chicago
Dear E.S,
Eastlake refers to Charles Eastlake. He was an English architect,
writer, and designer who set out to combine comfort and convenience.
His
furniture became fashionable between 1860 and 1900. Most likely the table
you're asking about is an American Eastlake-style piece, as you suspect.
When you're considering whether to buy the table, ask
yourself this: Does the table fulfill a need in your house? Will you
actually use the table or will it just take up space?
If you're buying
this to use and not simply as an investment, you get a nice, aesthetic
table for about the same price as some newer ones. Even so, chances are
that if you go to sell this table later, it will retain more value than a
new table. You may be able to break even and possibly make a profit!
What about you? Got a question for 1Earth Antiques, Collectibles & Appraisals? Send your questions and photos to
editor@antiques-art-collectibles.com.
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