FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How Do You Select Your Inventory?

 Growing up with antiques allowed me to live, walk past and touch very fine furniture on a daily basis. When selecting a piece to buy I ask myself, does this resemble the quality of what I grew up with? The decision comes pretty quickly since it’s either yes or no. I decide what I want to pay and the seller either agrees or not.

 There’s a school of antique buyers who look for pieces in as original condition as possible. It’s incredibly rare to find pieces that haven’t been repaired and refinished over the years. When found, these will be expensive and probably include chips, cracks, broken areas, and an old dull matte finish. But that’s also what makes these pieces so valuable. They are untouched with centuries of use. The finest examples in the most pristine conditions are now mostly found in museums or grand estates. I have a great respect for those folks.

 I look for pieces that are immediately attractive and nicely finished yet still have the patina of many years. They will have slight dings and wear commensurate with their ages, but will act as lovely pieces of jewelry to enhance your room. They will also be useable pieces of jewelry for a room.

 There’s something about a work of antique furniture versus a modern piece. It has history and soul, something only time can give it. I often think about who has owned and touched the piece and where it had lived.

 Is the piece simply elegant? Curves, lines, inlays, wood graining make these items all very unique. I love that.

 I choose not to offer pieces that are overly fragile or delicate.

 Today’s lifestyle is very active. Very delicate furniture may have a hard time surviving in a busy household.

 If there are deep stains such as glass rings or the like from many years ago, I’ll probably stay away. Sadly water rings are commonly found and can’t be avoided, even in particularly nice pieces.

 If a chest has replaced brasses yet the profiles of the original brasses is seen, I’ll probably stay away. Same if the brasses look brand new.

 I love well figured tiger maple, bird’s eye maple, cherry, walnut and burl woods. Mahogany is lovely too as long as it’s not too dark.

 There’s a very simple bottom line to how I select items to inventory and sell. I ask myself, would I like to live with that item in my home? If yes, great. If no, then I won’t inventory it. I am always open to special requests though.

 All of my items are stored in a temperature controlled area, similar to fine wine.

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 Is there a way I can view an item I am interested in?

 I will provide as much information I can on any item a client requests including more detailed photos if requested. If the client is local to Glastonbury, Connecticut and would like a viewing of the piece(s), that can be arranged very easily.

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How are your pieces shipped?

 I maintain a list of shipping companies where quotes can be requested. Shipping arrangement and costs will be handled by the buyer.

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Where can I find pricing for the items on your site?

 I have no employees, no fancy overhead, take no salary and work from home. My pricing, I feel, is very fair and therefore not flexible. I do not post my prices online but will respond very promptly to all requests. 

Email and text are the best ways to contact me, with texting preferred. You will be working with me directly. I greatly appreciate clear, prompt, and direct communication. I’ll follow with the same.

 If I have a lead on an item you may like I would need a prompt response if you are interested or not.

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What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted payment: Cash, Check (with photocopies of driver’s license, front & back), Master Card & VISA (3.5% added).