Vintage Bassett Dining Room Furniture

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Post on Feb 09, 2025

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The Enduring Charm of Vintage Bassett Dining Room Furniture

Finding the perfect dining room set can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But for those seeking timeless elegance and enduring quality, vintage Bassett dining room furniture offers a captivating alternative to mass-produced modern pieces. This article delves into the allure of Bassett's vintage offerings, exploring their history, identifying key characteristics, and providing tips for finding and restoring these beautiful pieces.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship: Bassett Furniture's History

Bassett Furniture, founded in Bassett, Virginia, boasts a rich history spanning over a century. Known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Bassett produced a wide range of furniture styles throughout its history, from traditional to mid-century modern. This legacy of quality is precisely what makes vintage Bassett dining room sets so desirable today. Their solid construction, often using hardwoods like oak and cherry, ensures they can withstand the test of time, becoming cherished family heirlooms passed down through generations. This makes investing in vintage Bassett dining tables and vintage Bassett dining chairs a smart and stylish choice.

Identifying Authentic Vintage Bassett Pieces

While many companies produce furniture inspired by Bassett's designs, identifying genuine vintage pieces requires a keen eye. Look for these key characteristics:

Distinguishing Marks & Features:

• Maker's Marks: Authentic Bassett pieces often bear maker's marks, labels, or stamps indicating their origin and sometimes the year of manufacture. These are crucial for verification. Check underneath the table, on the underside of chair seats, or inside drawers for these identifying marks.
• Wood Quality: Bassett frequently used high-quality hardwoods. Examine the wood grain; it should be rich and consistent. Look for solid wood construction, rather than veneer.
• Joinery: Examine the joinery – the way different pieces of wood are connected. High-quality joinery, such as dovetail joints, is a hallmark of well-made furniture.
• Hardware: The hardware – knobs, pulls, and hinges – should be sturdy and well-made. Look for details in the design, as Bassett often used distinctive hardware styles throughout its history.
• Style Consistency: While Bassett produced various styles, a genuine piece will exhibit stylistic consistency throughout. Mismatched elements suggest a later reproduction or modification.

Popular Vintage Bassett Styles to Look For:

• Traditional: Characterized by ornate carvings, rich wood tones, and classic designs.
• Mid-Century Modern: Featuring cleaner lines, tapered legs, and a more minimalist aesthetic.
• Provincial: Often incorporating rustic elements and a more informal, country style.

Finding Your Perfect Vintage Bassett Dining Set

The hunt for vintage Bassett furniture can be an exciting adventure. Here are some key places to explore:

• Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are treasure troves of vintage furniture. Use specific search terms like "vintage Bassett dining table oak," or "Bassett dining chairs mid-century." Be prepared to negotiate prices.
• Antique Shops and Flea Markets: These offer a hands-on experience, allowing you to inspect the furniture closely before purchase.
• Estate Sales and Auctions: These can provide access to unique and sometimes exceptionally well-preserved pieces.

Restoring and Maintaining Your Vintage Bassett Furniture

Vintage furniture, even with its inherent durability, may require some restoration. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Cleaning: Use appropriate furniture polish and cleaning products designed for wood. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Repairing: Minor repairs, such as tightening loose joints or replacing broken hardware, can often be tackled at home. For more significant repairs, consult a professional furniture restorer.
• Protection: Use coasters and placemats to protect the table's surface from scratches and spills.

Investing in vintage Bassett dining room furniture is an investment in quality, style, and history. By understanding the characteristics of authentic pieces and employing diligent research, you can find a stunning set that will serve as a focal point of your home for years to come. The enduring charm of these pieces makes them not just furniture, but a legacy.