Introduction
Dating Bassett furniture can be an exciting and rewarding experience for antique enthusiasts and collectors. Bassett Furniture Industries is a well-known American furniture manufacturer that has been producing high-quality pieces since the early 20th century. If you’re interested in dating a Bassett furniture piece, there are several factors to consider, including the design, materials used, and manufacturing marks. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of dating Bassett furniture and provide you with valuable insights to help you determine the age and authenticity of your piece.
Design Styles
Bassett furniture has gone through various design styles over the years, each reflecting the prevailing trends of the time. By familiarizing yourself with these design styles, you can gain a better understanding of when a particular piece was likely produced. Some notable design styles associated with Bassett furniture include:
Traditional: Bassett’s early furniture pieces often featured traditional designs, characterized by ornate carvings, rich wood finishes, and intricate details. These pieces were popular during the early to mid-20th century.
Mid-Century Modern: In the 1950s and 1960s, Bassett embraced the mid-century modern design movement, which emphasized simplicity, clean lines, and functionality. Look for furniture with sleek shapes, tapered legs, and minimal ornamentation.
Contemporary: Bassett continues to produce contemporary furniture today, featuring a blend of modern and traditional elements. Contemporary designs often incorporate a mix of materials, such as wood, metal, and glass, and may have more streamlined silhouettes compared to earlier styles.
Materials and Construction
Examining the materials used in a piece of Bassett furniture can provide valuable clues about its age. In the early years, Bassett primarily used solid wood, such as oak, mahogany, and cherry. As the years progressed, they began incorporating veneers and other composite materials. Look for signs of wear and tear, as well as any repairs or alterations, which can indicate the age and authenticity of the piece.
Additionally, pay attention to the construction techniques employed. Early Bassett furniture was often constructed using traditional joinery methods, such as dovetail joints and mortise and tenon joints. Later pieces may feature more modern construction techniques, such as screws and nails. Understanding the evolution of construction methods can help you date a Bassett furniture piece more accurately.
Manufacturing Marks
Many Bassett furniture pieces have manufacturing marks or labels that can provide valuable information about their age and origin. These marks are typically found on the back or underside of the furniture and may include the Bassett logo, the manufacturing date, and other identifying details. Consult reference books, online resources, or furniture experts to decipher these marks and determine their significance.
It’s important to note that not all Bassett furniture pieces have visible manufacturing marks. In such cases, you may need to rely on other dating methods, such as design styles and construction techniques, to estimate the age of the piece.
Conclusion
Dating Bassett furniture requires careful observation and research. By familiarizing yourself with the design styles, materials, construction techniques, and manufacturing marks associated with Bassett furniture, you can make more informed assessments about the age and authenticity of your piece. Remember to consult reputable sources and seek expert advice when necessary to ensure the accuracy of your findings.
References
– Bassett Furniture Industries: www.bassettfurniture.com
– “Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc.” Encyclopedia of American Industries, Gale, 2019. Gale Business Insights: Global, link.gale.com/apps/doc/CP3208530075/BIC?u=anon~f6e5d6a3&sid=bookmark-BIC&xid=2d8c3f9a. Accessed 10 May 2022.
