1970's Old Thomasville Furniture Collections

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Post on Dec 30, 2024

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Unearthing the Timeless Elegance: A Guide to 1970s Thomasville Furniture Collections

The 1970s: a decade of bold patterns, vibrant colors, and iconic design. This era left its mark on everything, including furniture, and Thomasville, a renowned name in American furniture manufacturing, played a significant role in shaping the style. This article delves into the captivating world of 1970s Thomasville furniture collections, exploring their distinctive features, identifying popular styles, and offering tips for collectors and enthusiasts.

Identifying Your 1970s Thomasville Treasure

Authenticating vintage furniture can be tricky, but there are tell-tale signs to look for when identifying your 1970s Thomasville pieces. Look for:

• Thomasville maker's marks: These marks, often found on the underside or inside of drawers, are crucial for verification. They can vary slightly depending on the collection and year of manufacture. Researching specific Thomasville furniture catalogs from the 1970s can be invaluable here. Online resources and dedicated furniture forums can assist in this identification process.

• Construction techniques: 1970s Thomasville furniture often employed techniques indicative of the era, such as dovetail joinery (though perhaps less elaborate than in earlier pieces) and the use of specific wood types popular at the time. Examine the joinery and wood type carefully.

• Style characteristics: The 1970s Thomasville styles varied widely, but some common characteristics included the use of warm wood tones (think walnut, oak, and cherry), possibly featuring veneers, and designs that reflected prevalent trends like Mediterranean, Early American, and even transitional styles incorporating elements of mid-century modern.

• Hardware: The drawer pulls, knobs, and hinges will offer valuable clues. Look for the style and material; brass, wood, or even ceramic pulls were common in this period.

Popular 1970s Thomasville Furniture Collections

While comprehensive documentation of every single 1970s Thomasville collection is difficult to find, some collections stand out for their popularity and distinctive design elements:

The "Mediterranean" Influence:

Many Thomasville pieces from this era incorporated elements of Mediterranean design, featuring rich wood tones, intricate carvings (though often simpler than earlier styles), and possibly inlaid accents. These pieces often evoke a sense of warmth and rustic elegance.

The "Early American" Revival:

A nod to colonial-era design, these Thomasville pieces often featured simpler lines, darker wood stains, and possibly the use of brass hardware. They frequently included features like slightly tapered legs and a more straightforward aesthetic compared to the more ornate styles.

Transitional Styles:

The 1970s Thomasville furniture also reflects a transition in design trends. You might find pieces blending aspects of mid-century modern simplicity with more traditional elements like carved details or the use of wood veneers. These designs often present a balance between contemporary and classic sensibilities.

Restoring and Maintaining Your 1970s Thomasville Heirloom

Owning a piece of 1970s Thomasville furniture is owning a piece of history. Proper care and restoration will ensure its beauty endures:

• Regular cleaning: Dust regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Wood polishing: Use a high-quality wood polish designed for furniture to maintain the finish.
• Repairing damage: Minor scratches and dents might be repairable with wood filler and touch-up paint. For significant damage, consult a professional furniture restorer specializing in vintage pieces.

The Value of 1970s Thomasville Furniture

The value of vintage Thomasville furniture varies widely depending on the specific collection, condition, and rarity of the pieces. However, well-preserved examples from the 1970s are increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, adding to their intrinsic and monetary value.

This guide provides a starting point for your exploration of 1970s Thomasville furniture collections. Remember, diligent research and careful observation are key to identifying and appreciating these timeless pieces. Happy hunting!