Bassett Vintage Furniture

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Post on Feb 19, 2025

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Bassett Vintage Furniture: A Collector's Guide to American Made Quality

Bassett Furniture. The name evokes images of sturdy craftsmanship, classic American style, and enduring quality. For decades, Bassett has been a household name, producing furniture that has graced living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms across the nation. Today, vintage Bassett pieces are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, representing a tangible piece of American design history. This guide will delve into the world of vintage Bassett furniture, helping you identify authentic pieces, understand their value, and appreciate their unique charm.

Identifying Authentic Vintage Bassett Furniture

Authenticating vintage furniture can be tricky, but there are several key indicators to look for when identifying genuine Bassett pieces:

Identifying Marks and Labels:

• Bassett Furniture Company Labels: Look for labels, often found on the underside of drawers or inside cabinet doors. These labels will typically include the company name, sometimes the city (Bassett, Virginia), and potentially a date or production code. Variations in label design occurred over the years, so researching different eras of Bassett labels is essential for accurate identification. Be wary of pieces lacking any markings—this could be a red flag.
• Construction Quality: Bassett was known for its solid wood construction, often using hardwoods like oak, cherry, and maple. Examine the joinery—dovetail joints are a common sign of high-quality craftsmanship. Look for solid wood frames and drawers, avoiding pieces with significant particleboard or veneer.
• Hardware: The hardware used on Bassett furniture can provide clues about its age and authenticity. Original hardware is often brass, and it may bear the Bassett name or a distinctive design. Replacement hardware can devalue a piece, so assess it carefully.

Popular Bassett Furniture Styles:

Bassett produced a wide range of styles over the years, including:

• Mid-Century Modern: Sleek lines, tapered legs, and a focus on functionality characterized Bassett's mid-century offerings.
• Traditional: More ornate and detailed pieces, often featuring carvings and decorative elements.
• Country: Rustic and charming designs, frequently incorporating natural wood tones and simple lines.

Dating Your Bassett Furniture

Pinpointing the exact age of your Bassett piece can be challenging without the label, but a few clues can help:

• Style: The overall design style can provide a general timeframe. For example, mid-century modern pieces were primarily produced from the 1950s through the 1970s.
• Construction Techniques: Changes in manufacturing processes over the years can offer clues.
• Hardware: Specific hardware styles and materials can often be dated. Researching similar hardware online can help.

Professional Appraisal: For a definitive assessment, consider consulting a furniture appraiser specializing in vintage American furniture. They can provide an accurate dating and valuation of your Bassett piece.

The Value of Vintage Bassett Furniture

The value of vintage Bassett furniture varies significantly based on several factors:

• Rarity: Less common styles and pieces in excellent condition will command higher prices.
• Condition: Well-preserved furniture with minimal wear and tear is more valuable than damaged or heavily restored pieces.
• Demand: The popularity of specific styles or collections can influence value.
• Completeness: A complete set (like a dining set or bedroom suite) generally fetches a higher price than individual pieces.

Caring for Your Vintage Bassett Furniture

Proper care is crucial to preserving the beauty and value of your vintage Bassett furniture:

• Regular Dusting: Use a soft cloth or feather duster to remove dust regularly.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use gentle furniture polish specifically designed for wood. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
• Protect from Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the finish, so keep your furniture out of direct sunlight.
• Use Coasters and Placemats: Protect surfaces from scratches and water damage.
• Professional Cleaning and Repair: Consider professional cleaning and restoration for significant damage or cleaning needs.

Finding and Buying Vintage Bassett Furniture

• Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay, Etsy, and Chairish are excellent resources for finding vintage Bassett furniture.
• Antique Shops and Flea Markets: These are great places to discover unique and potentially undervalued pieces.
• Estate Sales and Auctions: Estate sales often offer opportunities to find high-quality vintage furniture at reasonable prices.

By understanding the characteristics of vintage Bassett furniture and following these tips, you can confidently navigate the world of collecting and enjoy the enduring beauty and quality of this iconic American brand. Remember, careful research and a discerning eye are your best tools in finding that perfect, unique piece to add to your collection.