| A Case of Mistaken 
		IdentityQUESTION:
 
		 I
        have been looking for information about a low, curved, and upholstered
        rocker that I have.  The
        back has upholstery and the front surface of the back and top surface of
        the seat is upholstered too, one or both with columnar thick padding. The arms are low, too, coming from the back and
        returning to the seat in a curved fashion. The wood used on the arms is
        flat on the sides, but carved along the top edge in a similar look as
        the tufted upholstery: half-round rows running lengthwise, three or four
        abreast. A cross section of this top edge would roughly look like a
        lower case "m," only with more half rounds (mm). Joints are doweled as far as I can tell. The
        back has a crest that is a combination of burl and grain wood, inlaid
        and carved. The chair is low and graceful. My mom said it came from
        France in the early 1800's and an antique dealer told me over 15 years
        ago, that in it's current shape, it would still bring 1000. (It
        obviously needs repair) I cannot find any information about the style,
        period, or origin of this chair! I don't even know what to call it. Any
        leads would be so helpful! ThanksSamantha
 _______________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: 
		 What
        Samantha has is a Renaissance Revival rocker from about 1870-1890.
        During the second half of the 19th Century, manufacturers came out with
        a variety of pieces of furniture in different quality grades, just like
        today. The wood on her chair is
        walnut and will refinish nicely, so I recommend she get it done. She
        should study the fabric on it and try to find some similar to it. There
        are lots of fabrics made today that reflect Victorian designs. It
        doesn't have to be authentic, but it will make it look better. You can
        also reupholster it in a solid color velvet--also very Victorian. She'll
        need 5-6 yards. However, Sam's 
        rocker was made for mass market consumption, so it isn't as fancy as the
        high end ones made at that time. After it's refinished, it probably will
        be worth about $200-300. Refinishing Victorian pieces actually adds to
        their value, unlike furniture made before 1830. This is a classic case of
        mistaken identity and wishful thinking on the part of Samantha's mother
        and a not very knowledgeable antique dealer. It's wise to know various
        furniture styles before you venture out into the antique marketplace to
        avoid being taken. <  
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