Broyhill Attic Heirlooms Dining Room Table

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Post on Dec 30, 2024

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Unearthing Value: Your Broyhill Attic Heirloom Dining Room Table

Finding a forgotten Broyhill dining room table tucked away in the attic? You've struck gold! These pieces, often overlooked, represent not just furniture but a piece of American history and potentially a valuable heirloom. This guide delves into identifying, restoring, and even selling your Broyhill attic find.

Identifying Your Broyhill Treasure

Authenticating your table as a genuine Broyhill piece is the first step. Broyhill Furniture, known for its mid-century modern designs and quality craftsmanship, left distinct markings on its products. Look for these key identifiers:

• Labels and Stamps: Check the underside of the table's tabletop, apron, or even the legs. Look for a paper label or a stamped mark indicating "Broyhill," "Broyhill Furniture," or a specific line like "Brasilia" or "Chateau." The label might even indicate the year of manufacture. Photos of these markings are crucial for verification.
• Wood Type and Construction: Broyhill used various wood types, including oak, walnut, and cherry. Note the type of wood, the joinery techniques (dovetail joints are a sign of quality), and the overall construction. High-quality construction is a hallmark of Broyhill.
• Style and Design: Research Broyhill's various collections throughout the years. Familiarize yourself with popular styles from different decades (mid-century modern, traditional, etc.). Comparing your table's design elements (legs, shape, details) to images online can help with identification.

Online Resources for Identification:

• Online auction sites (eBay, etc.): Search for similar Broyhill tables to compare styles and markings.
• Antique and furniture forums: Connect with experts and enthusiasts for assistance.
• Broyhill collector websites: Dedicated sites may offer valuable information and identification resources.

Restoring Your Broyhill Heirloom

A little TLC can restore your Broyhill table to its former glory. Depending on its condition, restoration might involve:

Cleaning and Minor Repairs:

• Dusting and Cleaning: Start with gentle cleaning using appropriate wood cleaners and polishes. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Tightening Joints: Loose joints can be tightened with wood glue and clamps.
• Scratch Repair: Minor scratches can be concealed using wood fillers or touch-up pens.

More Extensive Restoration:

• Refinishing: If the finish is severely damaged, refinishing might be necessary. This requires stripping the old finish and applying a new one. Consider consulting a professional for this task.
• Repairing Damaged Wood: For significant damage, like cracks or broken legs, professional woodworking expertise is essential.

The Value of Your Broyhill Dining Room Table

The value of your Broyhill heirloom depends on several factors:

• Rarity and Demand: Some Broyhill collections are more sought-after than others.
• Condition: A well-preserved table is worth more than a damaged one.
• Completeness: A complete set (table and chairs) usually commands a higher price.
• Originality: Unaltered pieces retain more value than heavily modified ones.

Determining Value:

• Appraisal: A professional appraisal is recommended for accurate valuation, especially if you plan to sell or insure the table.
• Online Market Research: Compare prices of similar Broyhill tables sold on online auction sites and antique marketplaces.

Selling Your Broyhill Table (If Necessary)

If you decide to sell your Broyhill table, consider these options:

• Online Marketplaces (eBay, Etsy, etc.): These platforms offer wide reach but require careful listing creation with high-quality photos and accurate descriptions.
• Antique Dealers and Shops: Local antique dealers can offer expert advice and potentially purchase your table.
• Auction Houses: Auction houses specialize in selling high-value antiques and collectibles.

Your Broyhill attic heirloom is more than just furniture; it's a connection to the past and a potential investment. By properly identifying, restoring, and valuing your table, you can preserve a piece of history and potentially unlock significant value. Remember, thorough research and professional guidance are key to making informed decisions about your Broyhill treasure.