Do you have an antique vanity that you’re not sure about? Are you curious about what it might be worth? In this blog post, we will provide a guide to antique vanity identification and value. We will cover a variety of styles and eras, so that you can get an idea of what your vanity might be worth. This guide is also helpful if you’re looking into purchasing an antique vanity. Keep reading for more information!
Is There a Difference Between a Vanity and a Dressing Table?
Yes, there is a difference between a vanity and a dressing table. A vanity is typically larger than a dressing table, and it has more storage space. A vanity also usually has a mirror attached to the backboard.
The term “vanity” comes from the French word “vainqueur,” which means “conqueror.” The original vanities were used by men to store their weapons and armor. Eventually, women began using them for their own purposes, such as storing cosmetics and jewelry.
What Are the Different Styles of Antique Vanity?
There are many different styles of antique vanity, but we will cover some of the most popular ones here. Keep in mind that these styles can vary depending on the time period or country in which they were made.
The Empire Style: The Empire style of furniture is characterized by a straight line and strong column, with curved ornamentation on top.
Art Nouveau: Art Nouveau was a decorative art movement that took place from 1890 to 1910. It is characterized by flowers, plants, insects, and curved lines. This style can be found in both decorative arts and architecture throughout Europe and North America during this period of time.
Chippendale: Chippendale furniture was popular from 1750 to 1800; it was named after Thomas Chippendale (1718-1779), who designed many pieces for wealthy clients such as King George III’s mistress Lady Augusta Murray. Chippendale furniture is often characterized by its cabriole legs, claw feet, and fretwork.
Queen Anne: The Queen Anne style of furniture was popular from 1704 to 1714. It is named after Queen Anne of England, who was the last Stuart monarch. This style is often characterized by curves, shell motifs, and floral designs.
What Are the Different Eras of Antique Vanity?
There are several different eras during which antique vanities were made. Here are some of the most common ones:
The Regency Era (1811-1820): The Regency era is named after King George IV, who reigned from 1820 to 1830. This period is marked by a revival of classical styles from ancient Greece and Rome.
The Victorian Era (1837-1901): The Victorian era is named after Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 to 1901. This period is marked by an increase in production and consumption, as well as new technologies such as the steam engine and electricity.
The Art Deco Era (1920-1940): The Art Deco era is named after the Paris Exhibition of 1925, where art and design were displayed in a new way that broke away from traditional styles. This era is characterized by geometric shapes, lavish ornamentation, and bold colors.
How Do I Determine the Value of My Antique Vanity?
There are several factors that contribute to the value of an antique vanity. Some of these factors include:
- The age of the vanity
- The style of the vanity
- The country of origin
- The condition of the vanity
- How rare the vanity is
- Whether the vanity has been restored
The best way to determine the value of your antique vanity is to consult an appraiser. They will be able to look at all of the factors listed above and give you a more accurate estimate.
A Brief History of Early Vanity Designs
In the 19th century, vanities became increasingly popular as a way to display one’s personal possessions. These pieces of furniture were typically made out of wood and had mirrors attached to them so that they could be used while applying makeup or shaving.
By 1900, most middle-class homes had at least one vanity in them; these pieces of furniture were used as a place to store clothing, jewelry, and other personal items.
The early vanity designs were primarily made out of wood, but some also featured marble tops. These pieces of furniture typically had mirrors attached to them so that they could be used while applying makeup or shaving.
By 1900 most middle-class homes had at least one vanity in them; these pieces of furniture were used as a place to store clothing, jewelry, and other personal items.
Vanity Design Throughout the 20th Century: From 1910 until 1950 there was an increase in popularity for vanities with more intricate features such as drawers, shelves and cabinets . The materiality changed from being predominately wooden to having more metal components including hinges on drawers and metal hardware.
The design of vanities throughout the 20th century is characterized by its functionality. This can be seen in their use of wood, metal components like hinges on drawers and hardware as well as marble tops or other materials used for a more decorative look while still being functional pieces that could hold makeup brushes, combs etc.
Vanity Design from 1950’s to Present: The vanity designs from this time period are characterized by their modern style which incorporates technology into the piece with features such as lights around mirrors and electrical outlets/USB ports built into desks so people can plug in devices without having them take up space on top of tables. They also include many different types of storage including shelves underneath larger surface areas- making them more functional than ever before!
From 1950 to present day, vanity designs are characterized by their modern style which incorporates technology into the piece with features such as lights around mirrors and electrical outlets/USB ports built into desks so people can plug in devices without having them take up space on top of tables. They also include many different types of storage including shelves underneath larger surface areas- making them more functional than ever before!
Toilette Table
A type of vanity that was popular in the 18th century. It was a small, simple table with a mirror and one or two drawers.
The term “toilette” is French for “a place where one prepares oneself for appearance.” This is where we get the word “toilet.”
A toilette table is a type of vanity that was popular in the 18th century. It was a small, simple table with a mirror and one or two drawers.
French Table
A type of vanity that was popular in the 18th century. It was a large, ornate table with a mirror and multiple drawers.
The term “French Table” is derived from the French word “toilette.” This is because these tables were often used as vanities in the 18th century.
A type of vanity that was popular in the 18th century. It was a large, ornate table with a mirror and multiple drawers.
Dressing Table
A type of vanity that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was a large, ornate table with a mirror and multiple drawers.
Dressing tables were often used as vanities in the 18th and 19th centuries because they had a lot of storage space for storing makeup, jewelry, and other personal items.
A type of vanity that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was a large, ornate table with a mirror and multiple drawers.
Makeup Table
A type of vanity that is popular today. It is typically small and has one or two mirrors so that it can be used while applying makeup.
The term “makeup table” is a relatively recent term. It was first used in the early 1990s and is still popular today.
A type of vanity that is popular today. It is typically small and has one or two mirrors so that it can be used while applying makeup.
Dressing Mirror
A mirror that was often included with vanities in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Dressing mirrors were often included with vanities in the 18th and 19th centuries because they allowed people to see their entire outfit before leaving the house.
A mirror that was often included with vanities in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Mirror Table
A type of vanity that was popular in the 18th century. It was a small, simple table with a mirror and one or two drawers.
In the 18th century, we would call this sort of item a toilette table because it provided people with somewhere to prepare themselves before going out into public (i.e., putting on makeup). The term “mirror table” is newer and came about during Victorian times when technology allowed mirrors to be built directly into furniture pieces like tables rather than being separate items altogether.
Waterfall Vanity
A type of vanity that was popular in the 1920s and 1930s. It is characterized by its waterfall design on all sides, including the front face where most vanities have drawer fronts or doors instead.
The term “waterfall” comes from how this style appears when viewed from an angle: it looks like water falling over a cliff edge! In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these pieces were also functional because they allowed for more storage than other types of furniture at that time period due to their large size.
Waterfall vanities are characterized by their waterfall design on all sides, including the front face where most vanities have drawer fronts or doors instead.” This style became popular in the 1920’s and 30’s as people moved away from the ornate designs of the past and opted for something more sleek and modern.
Mid-Century Vanity
A type of vanity that was popular in the 1950s. It often had a modern look with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
The term “mid-century” comes from how this style appears when viewed from an angle: it looks like water falling over a cliff edge! In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these pieces were also functional because they allowed for more storage than other types of furniture at that time period due to their large size.” This style became popular in the 1920’s and 30’s as people moved away from the ornate designs of the past and opted for something more sleek and modern.”
The term “mid-century” refers specifically to styles developed between 1946 through 1964; however some scholars have argued that mid-century design encompasses other periods such as Art Deco (1920-1940) or Arts and Crafts movement (1860s-1920).” A type of vanity that was popular in the 1950’s. It often had a modern look with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.” The term “mid-century” refers specifically to styles developed between 1946 through 1964; however some scholars have argued that mid-century design encompasses other periods such as Art Deco (1920’s)
Retro Table
A type of vanity that was popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It often had a modern look with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
The term “retro” refers specifically to styles developed between 1946 through 1964; however some scholars have argued that retro design encompasses other periods such as Art Deco (1920’s) or Arts and Crafts movement (1860’s). The term “table” comes from how this style appears when viewed from an angle: it looks like water falling over a cliff edge!
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these pieces were also functional because they allowed for more storage than other types of furniture at that time period due to their large size.” This style became popular in 1920’s and 30’s as people moved away from the ornate designs of past opted for something more sleek modern.” A type of vanity that was popular in 1950’s often had look with clean lines minimal ornamentation; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such as Art Deco (1920s) Arts Crafts movement (1860’s).
Modern Vanity
A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
The term “modern” refers specifically to styles developed between 1946 through 1964; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such as Art Deco 1920s) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s).” This style became popular in 1920’s and 30s as people moved away from ornate designs past opted for something more sleek modern.” A type of vanity that was popular 1950s often had look with clean lines minimal ornamentation; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such Arts Deco (1920S) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s).
Streamlined Vanity
A type of vanity that was popular in the 1930s. It often had a sleek, modern look with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
The term “streamlined” comes from how this style appears when viewed from an angle: it looks like water flowing smoothly over a surface! In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these pieces were also functional because they allowed for more storage than other types of furniture at that time period due to their large size.” This style became popular in 1920’s and 30s as people moved away from ornate designs past opted for something more sleek modern.”
A type of vanity that is still made today has contemporary design with crisp edges straight lines but can include features like drawers or shelves too.” The term “modern” refers specifically to styles developed between 1946 through 1964; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such as Art Deco 1920s) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s).
Claw Foot Vanity
A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
The term “claw foot” comes from how this style appears when viewed from an angle: it looks like water flowing smoothly over a surface! In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these pieces were also functional because they allowed for more storage than other types of furniture at that time period due to their large size.” This style became popular in 1920’s and 30s as people moved away from ornate designs past opted for something more sleek modern.” A type of vanity that was popular 1950s often had look with clean lines minimal ornamentation; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such Arts Deco (1920S) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s).
Art Nouveau Vanity
A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
The term “art nouveau” refers specifically to styles developed between 1890 through 1905; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such as Art Deco 1920s) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s). This style became popular in 1920’s and 30s as people moved away from ornate designs past opted for something more sleek modern.” A type of vanity that was popular 1950s often had look with clean lines minimal ornamentation; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such Arts Deco (1920S) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s).
Mission Style Vanity
A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
The term “mission” refers specifically to styles developed between 1900 through 1915; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such as Art Deco 1920s) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s). This style became popular in 1920’s and 30s as people moved away from ornate designs past opted for something more sleek modern.” A type of vanity that was popular 1950s often had look with clean lines minimal ornamentation; however some scholars have argued there were other periods such Arts Deco (1920S) or Arts Crafts movement 1860’s).
Most Common Antique Vanity Finds
- Antique Vanity With Mirror: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
- Antique Dressers From Early 1900’s: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
- Round Vanity Mirror: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
- 1920’s Vanity Dresser With Mirror: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
- 1920’s Antique Vanity With Tri Fold Mirror: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
- Antique Vanity With Tri Fold Mirror Value: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too
- Antique Vanity With Tri Fold Mirror: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
- 1920s Vanity: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
- Antique Vanity With Trifold Mirror: A type of vanity that is still made today. It has a contemporary design with crisp edges and straight lines, but can include features like drawers or shelves too.
How to Identify an Antique Vanity on Your Own
- Close Examination of the Structure and Design: The first step in identifying an antique vanity is to take note of every detail. This includes everything from how it was built (i.e., wood veneer) to where its maker placed hinges or handles.
- Look at the Legs: The legs are a key part of any piece’s structure because they support weight when someone sits down for example, and without them it would collapse under pressure! They are also used as decoration by being carved into different shapes like flowers etcetera so that there’s more than just functionality involved here too.”
- Look closely at your wooden furniture pieces before buying them- if you see scratches on top surfaces then this could mean there have been some repairs made over time which may affect their value later on.”
- Check the Mirror: The mirror is one of the most important features on any vanity, as it allows you to see how you look from all angles. If it has any chips or cracks, this could lower its value significantly.
- Pay Attention to Hardware: Take a close look at all the hardware on your antique vanity- including drawer pulls and knobs. This can give you an idea about when it was made, since some styles were popular for only a brief period of time.
- Verifying the Materials & Matching to Proper Time Periods: If you have an antique vanity set that includes a chair, pay attention to the materials. For instance, if it’s made out of wood with brass accents then this could indicate that it was likely manufactured during World War II when metal was scarce and rationing was enforced on everyone living in America.
- Examine Vanity for Signs, Trademarks, Insignias, Stamps, or Markings: If you’re still unsure about the age of your antique vanity, there are a few other ways to verify its authenticity. Many times, vanities will have trademark markings or insignias that can be used to date them more accurately. You could also try looking for stamps or markings in inconspicuous places- like under the drawer bottoms.
- Examine the Exterior Surface Condition: If you’re looking at an antique vanity set and want to see if it has any chips, cracks or scratches then this will help give you some clues about how old the piece truly is.
- Evaluate Materials of Hinges, Knobs, and Other Hardware: The hardware used on an antique vanity can help you determine the age and value of the piece. Older pieces will typically use metal hinges, while newer vanities often have plastic or vinyl hinges. Metal knobs are also a sign of a more valuable vanity, as they were generally reserved for higher-end furniture in past eras. These days, wooden knobs are most common, but some manufacturers still make metal ones.
- Identifying the Screws and Joinery Methods Used: The screws and joinery methods used on antique vanities can help in determining the age and value of the piece. Older pieces will typically have screws that are hand-turned, while more modern pieces will often use machine screws. Another indication of age is the type of joinery used – dovetail joints are a sign of an older piece, while rabbet or dowel joints are more common in newer furniture. By identifying the screws and joinery methods used, you can get a better idea of how much your vanity is worth.
- Mortise and Tenon Joints: Mortise and tenon joints are one of the most common and strongest types of joinery. The mortise is a hole cut into one piece of wood, while the tenon is a projection on the other piece that fits into the mortise. This type of joint can be used with either screws or nails to hold them together.
- Dowel Joints: Dowel joints involve two pieces of wood that are joined by a dowel – a cylindrical piece of wood that is inserted into holes in both pieces. The dowel helps to keep the pieces aligned and provides some strength to the joint. This type of joint is often used in furniture made from plywood, as it is strong and relatively easy to execute.
- Rabbet Joints: Rabbet joints are created by cutting a rabbet, or a groove, along the edge of one piece of wood. The other piece is then fit into this groove, forming a joint that is both strong and attractive. This type of joint is often used in cabinetmaking and furniture making.
- Dovetail Joints: Dovetail joints are typically used in fine furniture and cabinetmaking. They involve cutting notches out of the edges of two pieces, which interlock to create a strong joint that is aesthetically pleasing.
Buying an Antique Vanity: Expert Advice
If you’re in the market for an antique vanity, it’s important to know what to look for so that you don’t get taken advantage of. Here are a few tips from the experts at [Antique Vanity Company](antiquevanitycompany.com) on how to buy an antique vanity:
– Make sure you know what you’re looking for. There are many different styles and types of antique vanities, so do your research ahead of time so that you know what to look for.
– Have a budget in mind. Antique vanities can be expensive, especially if they’re made from high-quality materials or are rarer models. Know what you’re willing to spend before starting your search.
– Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Antique dealers are usually willing to haggle over price, so don’t be afraid to ask for a better deal if you think the asking price is too high.
– Be patient. It can take some time to find an antique vanity that suits your needs and budget, but it’s worth the wait!
Approximate Values of an Antique Vanity – What Are They Worth?
As with any antique, the value of an antique vanity can vary depending on a number of factors. However, here are some approximate values that you can expect to find:
– A simple Vanity – $100 to $300
– A Vanity with Carvings or Decorative Elements – $200 to $1000
– A Vintage or Rare Vanity – $500 to $5000+
Where to Find an Authentic Antique Vanity?
If you’re interested in purchasing an authentic antique vanity, then there are a few places that you can look. The first place to check is at your local thrift store or flea market. These types of stores often have a wide selection of antiques and collectibles, which means that they might have what you’re looking for!
If not, try searching online through sites like eBay or Craigslist – these platforms allow people from all over the world to sell their items so there’s bound to be something available near where you live too. Finally, if those don’t work out then consider visiting an estate sale as well because people who are moving on will often want someone else enjoy their treasures instead just throwing them away into landfills unnecessarily.
Be sure to check out all our other posts on antiques and collectibles!
